Characterization Of Microbial Contaminants In Drinking Water Systems_ Insights From Bikaner Zone
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Abstract
Access to safe drinking water is a critical public health challenge, especially in developing nations like India. Pathogenic microorganisms contaminating potable water pose serious health risks. This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive microbiological and physiochemical examination of various drinking water sources in the Bikaner district of Rajasthan. Water samples were collected from urban households, rural households, public taps, borewells, canals, rivers, ponds, and other sources across Bikaner. Standard microbiological and analytical chemistry techniques were employed to isolate, identify and characterize microorganisms present, as well as analyze key physiochemical parameters. The microbiological analysis revealed high levels of total coliforms, fecal coliforms, and pathogenic bacteria like Escherichia coli, Klebsiella, Pseudomonas, Citrobacter and Aeromonas across all water samples. Surface water sources like rivers and ponds showed the highest microbial contamination, exceeding WHO limits by over 1000-fold. Groundwater from borewells had comparatively lower but still unacceptable microbiological quality. Tap water also contained coliforms indicating inadequate treatment and post-supply contamination. In-depth comparative studies were conducted on the isolated bacterial strains to characterize their physiological, biochemical, genetic and pathogenic properties. Antibiotic resistance, virulence factors, biofilm formation and environmental persistence of these waterborne pathogens were investigated. Molecular microbiology techniques like PCR genotyping were used to identify species and strain types. The physiochemical analysis examined parameters like pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, chlorine residuals, toxic metals and other chemicals. Most sources violated drinking water standards for multiple parameters. Surface waters showed high turbidity, low dissolved oxygen and presence of heavy metals. Even groundwater sources had physicochemical quality issues due to geogenic and anthropogenic contamination. This multi- dimensional study provides comprehensive baseline data on the microbiological and chemical quality of drinking water available to communities in Bikaner region. The findings confirm widespread contamination by fecal bacteria, other pathogens and unsafe physiochemical traits across all sources tested. This information will guide efforts to mitigate public health risks through proper treatment interventions, water safety plans, and other preventive measures for ensuring access to potable water in this water-stressed area.
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