In a significant move to ensure public health, Visakhapatnam (Vizag) has achieved a notable first for Andhra Pradesh. The city has officially launched a state-of-the-art mobile water testing laboratory, a pioneering initiative aimed at guaranteeing clean and safe drinking water for its residents.
A Lab on Wheels for Public Safety
This innovative mobile water testing laboratory was procured at an approximate cost of Rs 40 lakh. The funding was entirely arranged through the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds of the Visakhapatnam Water Supply Company (VIWSCO). The vehicle, now a crucial asset for the city's health infrastructure, was formally handed over to the district medical and health office (DMHO), which has entrusted its daily operations and maintenance to the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) drinking water supply department.
Advanced Technology for Instant Results
The laboratory is equipped with seven sophisticated instruments that allow for on-the-spot scientific analysis of water quality. Key equipment includes a spectrophotometer, a turbidity meter, and a digital titrator. This advanced setup enables trained professional chemists stationed in the mobile lab to instantly test for a range of contaminants and parameters, such as:
- Harmful metals
- Dangerous bacteria
- Chlorine levels
- Water turbidity
- Hardness
The proactive approach involves these chemists visiting residential areas across all wards in Vizag, conducting tests right at the doorstep of communities.
A Preventive Shield Against Diseases
GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg, who personally inspected the laboratory setup, highlighted the project's importance. He stated that the introduction of this advanced facility is a matter of pride for the city. The commissioner emphasized that such preventive testing is a powerful tool to control the spread of waterborne diseases like diarrhoea and typhoid, which are often caused by consuming contaminated water.
By identifying contamination sources instantly, authorities can take swift corrective action, potentially preventing outbreaks and safeguarding community health. This initiative marks a transformative step in public health management for Visakhapatnam, setting a benchmark for other cities in Andhra Pradesh to follow in the crucial mission of ensuring safe drinking water for all.
