HYDERABAD: In light of the increased complaints on drinking water quality, the century-old Institute of Preventive Medicine (IPM) has decided to step up its activities with more laboratories across the State and an exclusive facility to test and certify the packaged drinking water.

A first of its kind packaged drinking test and certifying facility in the Government sector to be established at IPM Narayanguda premises will monitor micro-organisms, trace metals and presence of pesticide in the packaged water that is flooding the market.

It will also issue quality certification on whether the water complies with the standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).

Trained staff

According to officials, the 6,000 sq. feet facility is expected to cost around Rs. 1.50 crore and will be equipped with the latest technology. The institute has the necessary expertise and trained manpower and plans to add some more staff once the laboratory is in place.

Efforts are on to get accreditation and a proposal has been made to the Health and Medical Department, the official said, adding the test and analysis facility will be open for the public and the industry.

"We intend analysis at different stages from raw water to end bottled product before giving a report," said G.Chennakesavulu, Chief Water Analyst.

15 labs in State

The IPM currently has 15 water testing laboratories across the State at Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Guntur, Warangal and Kurnool (Regional laboratories) apart from Medak, Karimnagar, Nalgonda, Wanaparthy, Dhone, Tirupati, Narasaraopet, Ongole, Vijayawada and Eluru (District laboratories).

Eight new laboratories are to be started in other districts at an estimated cost of Rs. 7 crores for establishing and operating them for a period of five years.

Printer friendly page  
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail