Another Bold initiative: IIT Palakkad team with District Surveillance Officer visits Attapadi to inspect water supply and sanitation systems.
In its relentless pursuit of bettering the lives of Attapadi residents, IIT Palakkad has taken another significant stride forward, this time focusing on enhancing water quality and waste management systems in Sholayur Panchayat as a preventive measure against potential diarrhea outbreaks.
A team from IIT Palakkad and district administration comprising Dr. Praveena Gangadharan (Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering), Ms. Sangeetha V (Research Associate), along with Dr. Geethu Maria Joseph (District Surveillance Officer, Palakkad), Dr. Salin K Eliyas, (Ardram Nodal Officer, Palakkad) and Dr. Rajalakshmi Aiyappan (DSO 2, Palakkad) visited Varadimala at Sholayur Panchayat in Attapadi on 1st August 2023, to inspect the water supply and sanitation systems as a preventive measure for diarrhea outbreak.
The team conducted a preliminary investigation on the water quality and waste management systems in the migrant hamlets located upstream of a natural stream. The turbidity level of the water in the hamlet premises was tested using a portable device. Recommendations were put forward for taking preventive measures against waterborne communicable diseases in the households. The existing waste management system was examined, and suggestions were proposed for safe sanitation and best hygiene practices. Experts trekked through the challenging dense forests to reach the treatment plant downstream and carefully reviewed its functionality and treatment efficiency.
The water quality was critically evaluated, and feasible solutions are put forward for the effective functioning of the treatment plant. Moreover, to ensure equitable access to clean water, the team suggested establishing a water distribution network compliant to set standards that would deliver water to downstream settlements. Following the site investigation, Dr. Praveena Gangadharan held extensive discussions with the District Surveillance Officer regarding realisation of the proposed recommendations.
