Kallai, coursing through the heart of Kozhikode city, has been identified as the most polluted river in Kerala, according to a recent report by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This marks a significant shift from the previous year, where Karamanayar in Thiruvananthapuram held the dubious distinction.
The report cites alarming figures for Kallai’s water quality, notably its Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) at 12.8 milligrams, far exceeding the permissible limit of 3 milligrams. Additionally, the Faecal Coliform Count (FC Count) measures between 410,000 to 440,000 per 100 millilitres, well above the acceptable level of 2,500 per 100 millilitres as per the National Water Quality Monitoring Programmes (NWMP).
While the BOD levels were previously within limits, the sharp increase over the past year underscores the deteriorating condition of the river. Conversely, the FC Count has shown a decrease from its previous measurement of 790,000.
The report attributes Kallai’s pollution to the discharge of industrial pollutants and sewage from drainage systems across Kozhikode city, which flow into the river via the Conolly canal.
Efforts to mitigate Kallai’s pollution will require concerted action from authorities and stakeholders to curb industrial discharge and improve wastewater management practices, ensuring the river’s restoration to health.
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