The National Water Quality Monitoring Program is executed in 22 major cities of Pakistan including federal area of Islamabad city. The province wise distribution of cities is Punjab (11), NWFP (3), Balochistan (4), Sindh (3), i.e. Punjab: Bahawalpur, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Kasur, Lahore, Multan, Rawalpindi, Sargodha, Sheikhupura, Sialkot; NWFP: Mangora, Mardan, Peshawar; Balochistan: Khuzdar, Loralai Quetta, Ziarat; Sindh: Hyderabad, Karachi, Sukkur. The water sources/locations in all cities were selected from where the people are getting water mainly for drinking purposes. The water samples for analysis were collected from overall 345 different water sources/locations showing distribution as Islamabad (26), Punjab (163), NWFP (35), Balochistan (66) Sindh (55). The source wise detail is Tubewells (176), W. Supply (23), Cistern (2), Bore (12), Tap (60), Well (5), Karez (3), Spring (5), Windmill (1), Hand Pump (48), Injection Pump (7), Donkey Pump (3).  The province wise water sources/locations distribution is Islamabad: Tubewell (19), W.Supply (2), Cistern (1), Bore (1), Tap (3); Punjab: Tubewell (90), W.Supply (5), Bore (9), Tap (7), Hand Pump (42), Injection Pump (7), Donkey Pump (3); NWFP: Tubewell (33), and Bore (2). Balochistan: Tubewell (31), W.Supply (13), Cistern (1), Tap (4), Well (5), Karez (2), Spring (5), Dam (1) Windmill (1), Hand Pump (2); Sindh: Tubewell (3), W.Supply (3), Tap (45), Hand Pump (4).

The analytical parameters are divided into

Physical and Aesthetic:- pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Turbidity, Color, Taste, Odor.

Major Components Chemicals:- Alkalinity (Alk), Bicarbonate (HCO₃), Carbonate (CO₃), Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Hardness, Sodium (Na), Potassium (K), Chloride (Cl), Sulphate (SO₄),  Nitrate (NO₃), Phosphate (PO₄), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS).

Trace and Ultra Trace Elements:- Lead (Pb), Arsenic (As), Iron (Fe), Fluoride (F), Chromium (Cr), Manganese (Mn), Molybdenum (Mo), Nickle (Ni), Aluminum (Al), Selenium (Se) have been included out of 58 determined elements.

Bacteriological Parameters:- Coliform and Escherichia Coli (E.Coli). The terminologies for differentiating safe and unsafe drinking water parameters in the report are used: - (i) guideline values; (ii) water quality standards; (iii) permissible limits; (iv) acceptable standards. The PCRWR has adopted WHO, PSQCA (Pakistan Standard and Quality Control Authority), and EC (European Commission) set standards for comparison. The report is based on Phase-III (summer) water quality monitoring through collection of water samples and subsequent field and lab. analysis. Contrary to previous two reports on water quality status of Pakistan; in this report a different pattern of results presentation is adopted on city level basis instead of parameters, which is more appropriate and easy to understand for policy makers, city Nazims and water supply managers to adopt future line of actions.

5.1.1          Islamabad

The water samples were collected from 26 locations covering the whole city and all possible drinking water sources i.e. Tubewell (19), Water Supply (2), Bore (1), Tap (3) and Cistern (1). Out of 26 locations only at 01 location the water source was safe for drinking. After processing the analytical data. 65% samples were found contaminated with Coliform bacterium and 23% were polluted with E.Coli, whereas 73% samples were identified having excess of Ca and 12% possessing excess of Fe and 8% showing high Turbidity levels when the data was compared with WHO and PSI set guideline values (Annexure-1). The water quality was deteriorated may be due to much older water pipes leakages, allowing seepage of sewerage water and the sources like tubewells, water supplies, cistern, bore, taps were extracting the groundwater contaminated by industrial waste or polluted streams and tributaries. The overall scenario of drinking water quality status was very much discouraging and alarming because the Islamabad is considered the most beautiful and hygienic city of Pakistan, but the water quality picture is otherwise. The agencies responsible to supply and manage the water resources of Islamabad were not transmitting the true picture to the public. For example, the National Institute of Health (NIH) declared that the water being supplied to the residents of the capital was fit for human consumption. A bacteriological examination report released by the institute said the water being supplied to the residents was free of various types of bacterium. The NIH analyzed the water samples after reports appeared in the newspapers that the quality of drinking water being supplied by the respective departments throughout the country was unhygienic. On the basis of this analysis, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) had assured the residents of Islamabad that they should not be scared of any water-borne disease because the water being supplied to them was completely safe for drinking (Dawn; March 27, 2004). The news published by the CDA was not supported by any data.

Safe Water Source

There is only 01 tubewell No.200 installed at Fatima Jinnah Park supplying safe water free of all microbial contaminations and possessing less and acceptable concentrations of soluble macro and micro inorganic ions as well as physical and aesthetic parameters compared with international water quality standards. Hence, the water could be supplied and used for drinking purposes from this tubewell in the city. (Annexure-23)

Safe Water Sources with Slight Problems

There are only 02 water sources viz. Tubewell No.193, F-6, NEFDEC Cinema and Tubewell No.37, G-5 (both had excess of Ca) supplying safe drinking water with slight water quality problems not so adversely affecting the human health in general. Hence, the water could be supplied and used for drinking purposes from these tubewells in the city (Annexure-24).

5.2.1          Bahawalpur

The water samples were collected from 25 locations covering the whole city and all possible sources i.e. Tubewell (13) and Hand Pump (12). Out of the 25 locations none of the source is supplying safe drinking water to the people living in the city. After processing the analytical data it was estimated that 24% were polluted with E.Coli; 52% samples were found contaminated with Coliform bacterium; 76% possessing excess Arsenic (As) most of the samples containing more than 50 ppb which is 5 times more than WHO set limits; 4% having more Lead (Pb), 4% samples with more Nitrate (NO₃) and K 12% with high Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), 32% water samples possessing excess level of Turbidity and the tubewell water of Commercial Area, Satellite Town has extreme levels of Turbidity may be due to damaged strainer pipes. 60% samples have higher concentration of Calcium (Ca) and the tubewell of Commercial Area, Satellite Town is pumping the water with more soluble ions of Ca (188 mg/l) may be due to underground more calcareous mineral rocks; the hardness was observed beyond permissible limits in 16% water samples; the Sodium (Na) ions are high in 8% water samples but the hand pump water is highly brackish possessing high levels of both cations and anions as well as Arsenic. The hand pump is located at Govt. High School, Hamatian; while 4% were found with more Potassium (K) level; the anions like Sulphate (SO₄) are also found beyond acceptable limits in 20% water samples; the micro element i.e.  Iron (Fe) was on higher side in 64% samples. 4% samples were found contaminated with Al and Mo (Annexure-2). The data was compared with WHO and PSI set guideline values.

5.2.2          Faisalabad

The water samples for analysis were collected from 13 locations covering the whole city and all possible sources i.e. Tubewell (2), Taps (5), Hand Pump (1), Injection Pumps (4), Donkey Pump (1). The overall supply of potable water is satisfactory because out of 13 sources 3 are supplying safe drinking water and 2 delivering safe water with slight problems (excess Fe). After processing the analytical data it was estimated that 15% samples were polluted with E.Coli, 38% water samples were found contaminated with Coliform bacterium and the same %age of water samples had been identified possessing the excess concentrations of Na, Ca, Cl, SO₄ and Fe. 8% samples having more F and Pb levels; 31% having excess NO₃. 23% water samples possessing hardness beyond acceptable limits, 46% samples had higher concentration of K and high level of TDS (Annexure-3).

Safe Water Source

There were 03 water sources i.e. 01 Tubewell No.3, installed at Canal Bank Road, Farooqabad; 02 Taps located at Baghdadi Chowk Sidupur Near Noori Masjid and Makhdoom Road, Khalil Abad were supplying safe water free of all microbial contaminations and possessing acceptable concentrations of soluble macro and micro inorganic ions as well as within limits of physical and esthetic parameters. Hence, the water could be supplied and used for drinking purposes from these sources safely. (Annexure-23).

Safe Water Sources with Slight Problems

There are 02 water sources viz. taps provided at Shadab Colony, Shadab Park and Awan Chowk, Sadar Bazar (both had excess of Fe)  were supplying safe drinking water with slight water quality problems not so adversely affecting the human health in general. Hence, the water could be supplied and used for drinking purposes from these sources safely. (Annexure-24).

5.23           Gujranwala

The water samples were collected from 14 locations covering the whole city and all possible sources i.e. Tubewells (9), Hand Pumps (2), Injection Pump (1), and Donkey Pumps (2). Out of the 14 locations the 04 sources i.e. 3 tubewells and 1 Donkey Pump were supplying safe drinking water. After processing the analytical data it was calculated that 14% water samples were polluted with E.Coli and 64% water samples were found contaminated with Coliform bacterium. 43% water samples were found having the As beyond permissible limits, while 7% water samples had excess of NO₃ anions and TDS. The two water samples (14%) contain excessive amount of Ca ions (Annexure-4).

Safe Water Source

There were 04 sources i.e. 3 tubewells installed at Tanki No.1, Peoples Colony Taqirpura, Saghir Park Badri Chowk, Govt. P. Graduate College Pasroor Road and 1 donkey pump located at Govt. Girls High School Sarfraz Colony were supplying safe water free of all microbial contaminations and possessing less concentrations of soluble macro and micro inorganic ions as well as acceptable levels of physical and aesthetic parameters compared with international accepted water quality standards. Hence, the water could be supplied and used for drinking purposes from these sources (Annexure-23).

5.2.4          Gujrat

The water samples were collected from 9 locations covering the whole city and all possible sources i.e. Tubewells (7), Hand Pumps (2). Out of the 09 locations only 02 water sources viz. tubewells were supplying safe drinking water. After processing and computation of the analytical data it was revealed that 33% water samples were polluted with E.Coli while 78% samples were found contaminated with Coliform microorganisms; 22% or 02 number of water samples are turbid; whereas 01 sample out of 09 samples were investigated to have excess concentration of various ions compared with WHO and PSQCA set guideline values i.e. As, TDS, Ca, Na, SO₄ and Fe (Annexure-5).

Safe Water Source

There were 02 tubewells installed at Mohalla Meanabad Sargodha Road and Municipal Corporation are supplying safe water free of all microbial contaminations and possessing less concentration of soluble macro and micro inorganic ions as well as with less values of physical and esthetic parameters compared with international accepted water quality standards. Hence, the water could be supplied and used for drinking purposes from the tubewells (Annexure-23).

5.2.5          Kasur

The water samples were collected from 10 locations covering the whole city and possible representative sources i.e. Tubewells (7), Hand Pump (1), and Injection Pumps (2). Out of 10 locations none of any source was supplying safe drinking water. In each case one or more parameter(s) was falling under non-acceptable guideline values. After compiling and processing the field and lab. analytical data it was recorded that 10% samples were polluted with E.Coli and 50% water samples were found contaminated with Coliform bacterium. The level of as in 80% water samples was found beyond WHO permissible limits (10 ppb). Only 01 (10%) sample collected from the tubewell installed at Govt. Primary School, Muhalla Qadir was found with higher concentration of Selenium (Se).The %age of various non-acceptable parameters like Fluoride and Nitrate (20%), Na, TDS and Fe (40%), K and SO₄ (30%) was identical (Annexure-6).

5.2.6          Lahore

The water samples were collected from 16 locations covering the major part of the city area and sources i.e. Tubewells (16). Out of the 16 locations none of any source was supplying safe drinking water. In each case one or more parameter(s) was falling under non-acceptable guideline values. The data was computed and processed which showed that 43% samples were polluted with Coliform Bacterium. None of the sample showing E-coli contamination. The overall picture of other parameters was depicted as 100% water samples were possessing higher concentrations of As compared to WHO guide line values. The higher concentration of Fe was found in 50% water samples. (Annexure-7).

5.2.7          Multan

The water samples were collected from 16 locations covering the city and major water sources i.e. Tubewells (7), Water Supplies (2), and Hand Pumps (7). Out of the 16 locations none of any source was supplying safe drinking water. In each case one or more parameter(s) were falling under non-acceptable guideline values. After processing the analytical data it was estimated that 31% samples were found contaminated with Coliform bacterium; and surprisingly no sample was polluted with E.Coli organism. A quite high %age (88%) of water samples were showing high concentration of As, whereas 50% water samples were possessing the concentration of Fe beyond the permissible limits. The Ca and turbidity were found in high concentrations in 38% and 19% water samples respectively (Annexure-8).

Safe Water Source with Slight Problem

There was only one water source tubewell installed at 132 KV Grid Station, Vehari Road was supplying safe drinking water with slight water quality problems (excess of Ca and Fe)  not so adversely affecting the human health in general. Hence, the water could be supplied and used for drinking purposes from this tubewell (Annexure-24).

5.2.8          Rawalpindi

The water samples were collected from 15 locations covering the major water supply sources of the city i.e. Tubewell (13), W.Supply (1), and Bore (1). Out of 15 locations only 2 sources (tubewells) were supplying safe drinking water. The data was computed and processed which shows that 40% water samples were polluted with E.Coli and 73% samples were found contaminated with Coliform bacterium, whereas 60%, 20%, 13%, and 7% water samples had been identified possessing higher levels of Ca, Turbidity, Fe, and TDS respectively compared with international permissible water quality standards (Annexure-9). The more recent survey of hospitals, basic health units (BHUs), clinics and medical care centers conducted by Nespak it was reported in the news media that more than 82,000 cases of water related diseases were recorded annually in Rawalpindi. Almost 40 % of all reported diseases and 30% of all reported deaths in Rawalpindi were attributed to E-Coli, bacteriological and fecal contamination of drinking water. It was further asserted that about 45% of the total infant deaths occur due to water-borne diseases while inadequate supply of safe and credible potable water and unhygienic sanitation conditions were responsible for as many as 80% of all morbidity. The epidemic of hepatitis that appeared in Rawalpindi in 1993 and resulted in 4,000 cases was mainly due to water source pollution by feaces and inadequate water treatment. The data also reveals that the water provided to the residents did not meet the World Health Organization (WHO) standards (Dawn; April 5, 2004).

Safe Water Source

The 02 sources i.e. Tubewell No.30 and Tubewell No.4 installed at Muslim Town Haji Chowk and PAF Base, Minhas Camp respectively were supplying safe water free of all microbial contaminations and possessing less concentrations of soluble macro and micro inorganic ions as well as acceptable level of physical and esthetic parameters compared with international accepted water quality standards. Hence, the water could be supplied and used for drinking purposes from these tubewells in the city (Annexure-23).

Safe Water Source with Slight Problems

There were 02 water sources (tubewells)  viz. Tubewell No.42 installed at Football Ground Westridge (excess Ca, Fe)  and Tubewell No.41 installed at Dehri Hasanabad (excess Ca); supplying safe drinking water with slight water quality problems not so adversely affecting the human health in general. Hence, the water could be supplied and used for drinking purposes from these tubewells as well in the city (Annexure-24).

5.2.9          Sargodha

The water samples were collected from 24 locations covering the major part of the city and all possible drinking water sources i.e. Tubewell (1), Water Supply (2), Bore (8), Hand Pumps (13). Out of 24 locations only 01 location had the facility to supply safe drinking water. After computing and processing of the field and lab. analytical data it was estimated that about 38% water samples were polluted with E.Coli and 75% samples were found contaminated with Coliform bacterium. The high concentration of As, Na, Cl, SO₄, Ca and Mg ions were found beyond the permissible limits in 13%, 54%, 42%, 46%, 50% and 17% water samples respectively but the water sample collected from Govt. Poly Technic Institute has shown extreme high level of As (182 ppb) when the WHO acceptable limits is 10 ppb and the threshold value is 10 ppb whereas, followed by the Pakistan Standard Quality Control Authority. High level of TDS and Turbidity was observed in 63% and 4% samples respectively.  A similar and identical 33% water samples had been found containing high level of Hardness, NO₃ and K. High concentration of Fe was found in 4% samples (Annexure-10).

Safe Water Source

There was 01 source (Hand Pump) located at M. Mumtaz Chak No.9, Jhang Road; supplying safe water free of all microbial contaminations and possessing less concentrations of soluble macro and micro inorganic ions as well as acceptable levels of physical and esthetic parameters compared with international accepted water quality standards. Hence, the water could be supplied and used for drinking purposes without using any treatment process (Annexure-23).

Safe Water Source with Slight Problems

There were 02 water sources viz. Bore drilled at Haji Saifullah, Chak No.47 NB (posses excess Ca)  and Hand Pump located at Mosque Chak No.87, Nikki (excess of Ca and K) ; supplying safe drinking water with slight water quality problems not so adversely affecting the human health in general. Hence, the water can be supplied and used for drinking purposes (Annexure-24).

5.2.10        Sheikhupura

The water samples were collected from 11 locations covering the major localities of the city and all possible sources i.e. Tubewells (6), Tap (1), and Hand Pumps (4). Out of 11 locations only 01 source (tubewell) was supplying safe and potable drinking water. After compiling and processing the field and lab. analytical data it was observed that 9% water samples were found beyond the permissible limits in parameters i.e. E.Coli, Turbidity, SO_4, Ca and Hardness, while 36% samples were found contaminated with Coliform bacterium. A reasonable percentage (45%) of water samples have been found possessing higher levels of As, even 66 ppb was determined in water taken from the tubewell installed at Nati Pura near Yamin Madran Tubewell-12. The 27% samples found with high level of NO₃ & TDS while 18% samples having Na & K beyond the permissible limits (Annexure-11).

Safe Water Source

There was only 01 source i.e. Tubewell No.18 located at Housing & Physical Colony; supplying safe and potable water free of all microbial contaminations and possessing less concentrations of soluble macro and micro inorganic ions as well as below levels of physical and esthetic parameters compared with international accepted water quality standards. Hence, the water can be supplied and used for drinking purposes from this tubewell without involving any treatment process (Annexure-23).

Safe Water Source with Slight Problem

There was one hand pump located at Kohistan Rehman Hotel near G.M. Rice Mill; supplying safe drinking water with slight TDS problem not considered so much adverse on the human health in general perspective. Hence, the water can be supplied and used for drinking purposes from this hand pump (Annexure-24).

5.2.11        Sialkot

The water samples were collected from 10 locations covering the major parts of the city and water supply sources i.e. Tubewells (9) and Tap (1). Out of 10 locations no source was supplying perfect potable and safe drinking water. After compiling and processing the field and lab. analytical data it was found that 30% water samples were polluted with E.Coli and almost double %age (70%) of water samples were contaminated with Coliform organism.  The 20% water samples are possessing slightly higher concentration of As (11-14 ppb) compared with WHO acceptable standards. However, 10% samples were found containing high level of Turbidity, Ca and Fe (Annexure-12).

Safe Water Source with Slight Problems

There were 02 tubewells located at Allama Iqbal Memorial Hospital (excess Turbidity) and Fetch Garh Road near Grave Yard (excess Ca); supplying safe drinking water with slight water quality problems not so adversely affecting the human health in general perspective. Hence, the water can be supplied and used for drinking purposes by the communities (Annexure-24).

5.3.1          Mangora

The water samples were collected from 10 locations covering the major localities of the city and sources i.e. Tubewells (10) (Annexure-13). Out of the 10 locations only 02 tubewells were supplying potable safe drinking water. After processing the field and lab. analytical data it was revealed that 10% water samples were found contaminated with E.Coli and 40% samples were found contaminated with Coliform bacterium. 20% samples having high level of NO₃ and 70% Ca ions may be due to lime containing aquifers.

Safe Water Source

There were 02 water sources viz. Shagi Tubewell and Tubewell located in Sector-C, Kanju Township area; supplying quite potable and safe water free of all microbial contaminations and possessing less concentrations of soluble macro and micro inorganic ions as well as low levels of physical and esthetic parameters compared with international accepted water quality standards. Hence, the water can be supplied and used for drinking purposes from these tubewells without any treatment processes (Annexure-23).

Safe Water Source with Slight Problem

There were 02 tubewells installed at DHDC Hospital and TW-1, Amankot, Chinar Colony,; supplying water having slightly higher concentration of Ca ions hence the water was safe for drinking not to be considered so adversely affecting the human health in general perspective. Hence, the water can be supplied and used for drinking purposes by the communities (Annexure-24).

5.3.2          Mardan

The water samples were collected from 12 locations covering the major parts of the city and most of the water supply sources i.e. Tubewells (10), Bores (2) (Annexure-14). Out of the 12 locations no source is found satisfactory for supplying potable and safe drinking water. The compilation and computation of the field and lab. analytical data had shown that 8% water samples were polluted with E.Coli and majority of the water samples (75%) were contaminated with Coliform bacterium.  The 67% of the water samples have concentrations of Fe beyond permissible limits of WHO standards whereas 01 sample (8%) has slightly more concentration of NO₃ anions (above 20 mg/l) as 10 mg/l is the acceptable level of WHO. In the tested water samples the major problem identified was the presence of Coliform bacteria.

Safe Water Source with Slight Problem

There were 02 water sources viz. Tubewell No.12, Dang Baba and Bore at Hujra Haji Zareen Khan which had been found possessing high concentration of Iron (Fe) may be considered the sources supplying safe drinking water with slight water quality problem not so adversely affecting the human health in general perspective. Hence, the water can be supplied and used for drinking purposes from the tubewell and the bore (Annexure24).

5.3.3          Peshawar

The water samples were collected from 13 locations covering the major parts of city and water supply sources 13 number of Tubewells. Out of the 13 tubewells 03 were pumping hygienic and safe drinking water. The data was processed and found that 02 water samples (15%) were contaminated with E.Coli and double numbers (04) and identical %age (31%) of the samples were contaminated with Coliform bacterium. One sample (8%) out of 13 water samples had excessive water quality parameters i.e. Hardness, TDS, Cl and SO₄ compared with WHO permissible values. The Fe concentration was found slightly on higher side in 62% water samples (Annexure-15).

Safe Water Source

Out of 13, the 03 tubewells installed at Nothia Road Gulberg No.1; Agriculture University Campus, and 7-D-4/Phase-1, Super Market; are supplying very good quality potable and safe water free of all microbial contaminations and possessing less concentrations of soluble macro and micro inorganic ions as well as low levels of physical and esthetic parameters compared with international adopted water quality standards. Hence, the water can be supplied and used for drinking purposes from these tubewells without any treatment process (Annexure-23).

Safe Water Source with Slight Problem

The 05 numbers out of 13 tubewells installed at Khattak Chowk; Soraizai Payan Inqilab Road; Ahmad Khail; Afghan Colony Latif Abad; and TW-2, St.4, Kacha Garhi; have been identified the water sources possessing slightly above concentrations of Iron (Fe) (0.34-0.46 mg/l), the acceptable value of Fe is 0.3 mg/l as per WHO standard. Hence, these tubewells are extracting and supplying very near to safe water quality suitable for drinking not so adversely affecting the human health in general perspective. Consequently, the water can be supplied and used safely from these tubewells (Annexure24).

5.4.1          Khuzdar

The water samples were collected from 11 locations covering the major areas of the city and all possible sources i.e. Tubewells (4), Water Supplies (2), Cistern (1), Tap (1), Well (1), Spring (1), Hand Pump (1). In upland Balochistan, the groundwater was dependable source of water because surface water liable to runoff within shortest period in the streams and tributaries after precipitation. Out of the 11 locations not even a single source was supplying safe potable drinking water. The field and lab. analytical data had shown that dominant sources of water were contaminated with feacle organisms E.Coli (55%) and Coliform (91%). The Turbidity level is higher in 36% water samples, whereas the inorganic constituents like NO₃ and Ca were found at higher levels in 18% and 27% water samples respectively compared with WHO guideline values. Out of 11 analyzed water samples, 02 (18%) samples collected from the tubewell installed at Irrigation Colony and hand pump located at Madrisa Jamai-e-Rizvia Khalilia Khund had shown more levels of Chromium (Cr), whereas, 03 (27%) water samples collected from a well (Madrisa Tajweed-ul-Quran Katan), a spring (Pir Umer Mazar) and a tap (Super Shashan Hotel on Karachi Road) were found beyond permissible limits of Alluminium (Al) levels (Annexure-16).

5.4.2          Loralai

The water samples were collected from 11 locations covering the major localities of the city and possible surface and groundwater sources i.e. Tubewells (3), Water Supplies (3), Tap (1), Wells (2), Spring (1) and Dam (1). Out of the 11 locations 03 sources (1 water supply & 2 tubewells) are supplying fit and safe potable drinking water. After processing the analytical data it was concluded that 73% water samples were contaminated and polluted with E.Coli and Coliform micro organisms, whereas 01 sample comprising 9% of the total samples had been declared unfit for human ingestion due to high level of Hardness, NO₃, TDS and SO₄ above the permissible limits. High concentration of Fe was found in 2 sample contributing 18% of the total samples and the same percentage had high level of Turbidity. However, 36% water samples have high concentrations of Ca ions. Only one sample (Torkhezai delay action dam) showed high concentration of Al and F.

Safe Water Source

There are 03 water sources i.e. one public Water Supply scheme in the form of Army Water Purification Plant; and two Tubewells installed at Commissioner Office; and PHE Pathan Kot; supplying potable fit and safe water free of all microbial contaminations and possessing less concentrations of soluble macro and micro inorganic ions as well as less physical and esthetic parameters compared with international accepted water quality standards. Hence, the water can be supplied and used for drinking purposes from these water sources without any treatment process (Annexure-23).

5.4.3          Quetta

The water samples were collected from 34 locations covering the major civil residential and cantonment areas of the city and all possible sources i.e. Tubewells (22), Water Supplies (6), Tap (1), Well(1), Karez (1), Spring (2), and Hand Pump (1). Out of 34 locations 12 sources are supplying fit, potable and safe drinking water. The data was compiled and processed which revealed that 8 samples (24%) were polluted with E.Coli and possessing more concentration of Fe, at the same time, 17 samples (50%) were contaminated with Coliform bacterium. Out of total samples 8 numbers (24%) have soluble ions of NO₃, Fe and F  in higher concentrations, whereas 5 water samples (15%) have more Turbidity level and 3 samples (9%) has Hardness. TDS and SO₄ values beyond the permissible limits were found in 9% and 6% of the samples respectively. Where as 12% samples have high level of Ca and 3% with high level of Mg and As. 05 (15%) samples collected from a spring (Met. Office Breway), a karez (Gujrai Karez near Kechi Beg), two tubewells (Jamia Masjid Nawan Killi and Quetta Airport), a spring (Urak Spring Cantt.) and a lake (Hanna Lake) were found possessing higher concentration of Aluminum (Al) than permissible limits (Annexure-18).

Safe Water Source

The Quetta valley dominant population is using groundwater for drinking and domestic needs. The most of the alluvium aquifers have been exhausted and consequent groundwater extraction by B-WASA is concentrated on 1000-1200 feet deep hard rock aquifers due to which the groundwater is saved from the contamination of sewerage effluent, commercial and domestic waste water. The Quetta Metropolitan is fortunate because out of 13 tubewells 09 are pumping fit, potable and safe drinking water. Similarly out of 05 water supply schemes 03 are providing the safe good water quality free of all microbial contaminations and possessing less concentrations of soluble macro and micro inorganic ions as well as lower physical and aesthetic parameters compared with international accepted water quality recognized standards. Hence, the water can be supplied and used for drinking purposes from these sources without any treatment process. The list of tubewells and high up water supply tanks is given for the awareness of general public and other safe water consumers particularly the mobile water tanker owners supplying the potable water to the houses on payment (Annexure-23).

5.4.4          Ziarat

The water samples were collected from 10 locations covering the major parts of the city and all possible sources i.e. Tubewells (2), Water Supplies (2), Tap (2), Well (1), Karez (2), Spring (1), Windmill (1). Out of 9 locations no source is supplying safe drinking water. After compiling and processing the field and lab analytical data it was estimated that all water samples (100%) were found polluted with E.Coli and Coliform bacterium. The physical and chemical analysis of water has indicated the high level of Turbidity and NO₃ concentration in 2 samples (20%) and in 1 sample (10%) the hardness was also above the acceptable limit. The Ca ions were in high concentration in 5 water samples (50%) may be due to the presence of Chiltan and Ziarat limestone rocks in the area.  05 (50%) samples collected from a spring (P.H.E. Water Supply Scheme), two water supplies (PHE Water Supply near Jinnah Top and Faran Tangi Water Supply Scheme Killi Pechi), a well (Jamia Masjid) and a Karez (Cheena Karez) were found possessing higher concentration of Alluminium (Al) than permissible limits (Annexure-19).

5.5.1          Hyderabad

The water samples were collected from 15 locations covering the main localities of the city and possible sources i.e. Tubewell (1), Water Supplies (2), and Taps (12). Out of 15 locations no source was identified which supplied safe drinking water. After compilation and processing of the field and lab. analytical data it was found that 93% water samples were polluted with E.Coli and 100% samples were found contaminated with Coliform bacterium, whereas, out of 15 water samples, 12 samples (80%) have the Turbidity level beyond the permissible limits because major water supply is from Indus river and more turbidity was observed in tap and water supply distribution system; only the water from tubewell and two taps were observed free of suspended sediments; 7 samples (47%) contained excess Fe contents and 1 sample (7%) has high concentration of Ca, Pb and Hardness (Annexure-20).

5.5.2          Karachi

The water samples were collected from 28 locations covering the major parts of the metropolitan and possible sources i.e. Taps (26), Hand Pumps (2). Out of 28 locations no source was identified which supplied safe drinking water. The field and lab. analytical data was compiled and processed, it was noticed that 86% water samples were polluted with E.Coli and 100% samples were found contaminated with Coliform bacterium, consequently all water sources were switched over to unsafe drinking water. Amongst the tested water samples 2 samples (7%) were high in Hardness, Na and K ions, similarly 1 sample (4%) were found with high ionic concentration of Ca, Mg, SO₄, NO₃ & F and 3 samples (11%) have high level of Cl & TDS, whereas 12 samples (43%) contained Fe beyond WHO guideline values. The high Turbidity was observed in 5 samples (18%) out of 28 water samples. 02 (7%) samples collected from a tap (Jamia Masjid Fazyan Al-Tegia), a hand pump (Café Nasir Gulbheri) have been found possessing higher concentration of Nickel (Ni) than acceptable limits (Annexure-21).

In the news print media, a number of information about water quality was published which showed the gravity of the poor quality of water being supplied and used in the city. Karachi was provided with about 550 million gallons of water every day from two major surface water sources - Indus River and Hub reservoir. The Malir and Lyari rivers were blatant examples of rivers that have been converted into sewerage drains and there was no sign of aquatic life other than pollutants. The city Nazim had presented a gloomy picture of the quality of water and informed that more than 10,000 people in the city die annually of renal infection due to the polluted drinking water (Dawn March 16,2004). Karachi Water Supply Board (KWSB) was the sole water supply agency in the city, supply water through underground pipe network and ultimately the people are using Tap water because groundwater was highly saline due to the Arabian seawater intrusion. KWSB had claimed that safe and fit drinking water was supplied for human consumption after chlorine treatment. The decreased rate of downstream Kotri Barrage Indus river flow, the total dissolved solids (TDS) in Indus water increased steeply and reached the limits of 3200 mg/l at Sujawal Bridge. The Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) had reported the diseases like diarrhea, dysentery, cholera, viral hepatitis, respiratory infections and cabbies at hospital in a considerable number which appeared a source of poor water quality. The agency had also managed the water quality analysis and estimated that 87% of tap water samples collected from 18 different localities of Karachi were unsatisfactory for drinking purpose. All samples were contaminated with E-Coli fecal organism and one could imagine what havoc the water could play with the health of patients undergoing routine dialysis due to kidney problems (DawnMarch16&22,2004).

5.5.3          Sukkur

The water samples were collected from 12 locations covering the major localities of the city and possible sources i.e. Tubewells (2), Water Supply (1), Taps (7), Hand Pumps (2). Out of 12 locations only 2 sources were supplying safe drinking water. The field and lab. analytical data was compiled and processed, it was estimated that 67% water samples were polluted with E.Coli and 75% samples were found contaminated with Coliform bacterium, consequently most of the water sources were switched over to unsafe drinking water. Out of 12 samples, 7 samples (58%) were containing the non-acceptable level of suspended earth materials in the form of high Turbidity level. The highest %age of turbidity was observed in tap and water supply distribution system because the major source of water supplied to the city was drawn from the Indus River containing suspended colloidal materials. One samples (8%) had been found possessing high concentration of SO₄,TDS, Hardness & As Similarly, 2 sample (17%) had shown the level of K & Ca above the permissible limits as per WHO guideline values. 04 (33%) samples collected from two tubewells (Maka Goth near Sheraz Hospital and Water Supply Scheme Barrage Colony), a tap (Hamayoon Gymkhana), and a hand pump (Hotel Sukkur Inn, Clock Tower) were found possessing higher concentration of Aluminium (Al) than permissible limits (Annexure-22).

Safe Water Source

There are 02 sources i.e. Tubewell installed at Makka Goth, Near Sheraz Hospital (possessing only excess Aluminium ultra trace element) and Hand Pump located at Khalil Photo near Al-Habib Hotel; supplying potable good quality safe water free of all microbial contaminations and possessing less concentrations of soluble macro and micro inorganic ions as well as lower level of physical and esthetic parameters compared with international accepted water quality recognized standards. Hence, the water can be supplied and used for drinking purposes without any treatment process (Annexure-23).

Samples were collected from 20 different sources i.e. Dams (06), Rivers (08), Canal (01), Drain (01) and Lakes (04). After the compilation of field and lab data it was found that 100% samples were contaminated with Coliform and E.Coli. Out of 20 samples 85% samples have high level of turbidity, 5% samples of surface water found high concentration of Ca, Mg, Hardness, Na, K, Cl, SO₄, As, Cr, TDS and Mn. whereas 16% samples having high concentration of Pb and 20% samples were found contaminated with high concentration of F, Cd, and Ni. Where as 25 % samples were found contaminated by Al. Out of 20 samples 35% samples have high concentration of Iron. Hamal Lake was found with high level of Ca, Mg, Hardness, Cl. Na, K, SO_4, and TDS. (Annexure-26).

In order to measure the validity of analyzed data quality measure or protocol was adopted. Quality control protocols were followed both at the field and laboratory levels by adopting standard sampling methods, instrumental calibration with known standards addition, reproducibility and cross checks.  For this purpose, quality control measures were taken at the beginning of sample collection. Four types of samples (Bacterial Samples in sterilized bottles, Nitrate (as a Nitrogen) and Trace elements with appropriate preservatives and other water quality parameters without preservatives) were collected from each site. Cross, field blank and replicate samples for quality control purpose were collected. Standardization and calibration of equipment for each parameter were carried out with known standards purchased from reputed companies. Sites for cross, field blank and replicate samples were selected owing to site number divisible by 10 or 20. Field blank and replicate samples were analysed at PCRWR water quality laboratory, Islamabad. Where as samples for cross analysis were sent to reputed national laboratories but we have not received analytical results uptill now. To avoid further delay cross samples were, therefore, analyzed at PCRWR regional laboratories. The results of field blanks, replicate and cross analysis are shown in Annexure-27. The results of quality control samples revealed that the variations in results are with in acceptable limits compared with international standards for water analysis. PCRWR water quality laboratory Islamabad is under the process of Accreditation to ISO 17025 as more than 70% of the preparation has been completed in this regard. This laboratory has also applied for international proficiency testing scheme.