Dec 30, Kathmandu - Water sources in Kumakh Rural Municipality wards 2 and 6 are contaminated with coliform bacteria, posing health risks to local residents.

A recent testing conducted under the Municipality’s Sustainable Drinking Water, Hygiene, and Sanitation Project revealed that 11 water sources across the municipality were contaminated with coliform bacteria. The testing covered 83 water sources from various villages, based on seven key parameters, and identified contamination in sources used by over 300 families in wards 2 and 6.

Coliform bacteria are known to cause diseases such as diarrhea and hepatitis, prompting the municipality and project officials to prepare awareness programs to ensure water purification.

Despite ongoing efforts, some areas still face sanitation issues, with open defecation near water sources and in surrounding forests, which continues to threaten water quality. The municipality’s Forest, Environment, and Disaster Management Chief, Jivan Sharma, emphasized that programs focusing on water source protection and bacterial elimination are underway to safeguard public health.