BIS Standards for Drinking Water Quality In India

BIS Standards for Drinking Water Quality In India

Water Quality and Safety February 13, 2024

Water, the elixir of life, is crucial for our survival and well-being. But have you ever wondered about the quality of the water you consume daily? Enter BIS standards – the benchmark for ensuring the purity and safety of drinking water. In this blog, we’ll delve into the world of BIS standards, uncovering what they are and why they matter, with a special focus on the BIS standards for drinking water. Get ready to quench your thirst for knowledge as we explore the fascinating realm of water quality standards!

Fascinating Facts About Water

Before we dive into BIS standards, let’s start with some intriguing facts about water:

Water covers about 71% of the Earth’s surface, yet less than 1% is suitable for drinking.

1 in 3 people globally do not have access to safe drinking water –UNICEF, WHO

The human body is composed of approximately 60% water, highlighting its vital role in our physiology.

Water is the only substance found naturally on Earth in three forms: solid (ice), liquid (water), and gas (water vapor).

The Great Blue Hole in Belize is the largest underwater sinkhole on the planet, reaching depths of over 400 feet.

Water molecules can form beautiful crystalline structures when frozen, creating intricate snowflakes and frost patterns.

Understanding BIS Standards

Now that we’ve quenched our thirst for fascinating water facts, let’s turn our attention to BIS standards. BIS, or the Bureau of Indian Standards, is the national standards body of India, responsible for developing and maintaining standards across various sectors, including water quality.

BIS Standards for Drinking Water

When it comes to drinking water, BIS has established stringent standards to ensure that water supplied to consumers is safe and of high quality. These standards cover various parameters, including physical, chemical, and microbiological characteristics of water. Here are some key BIS standards for drinking water:

IS 10500:2012 –

Specifications for Drinking Water: This standard lays down the specifications for various parameters such as color, odor, taste, pH, turbidity, and chemical contaminants like arsenic, fluoride, and heavy metals. It also includes microbiological requirements to ensure the absence of harmful bacteria and pathogens in drinking water.

IS 10500:2012 (Amendment 1:2019) –

Revised Limits for Drinking Water: The amendment to IS 10500:2012 introduces revised limits for certain parameters based on updated scientific knowledge and international best practices. It reflects advancements in water quality management and aims to enhance the safety and purity of drinking water.

IS 10500:2012 (Amendment 2:2020) –

Microbiological Requirements for Drinking Water: The second amendment to IS 10500:2012 focuses on microbiological requirements, setting stricter limits for coliform bacteria and introducing new parameters like E. coli to ensure microbiological safety.

Why BIS Standards Matter?

BIS standards play a crucial role in safeguarding public health by ensuring that drinking water meets stringent quality criteria. By adhering to BIS standards, water suppliers and regulatory authorities can monitor and control water quality effectively, reducing the risk of waterborne diseases and contamination. Moreover, BIS standards provide consumers with confidence in the safety and reliability of the water they consume, promoting public trust and transparency in the water supply system.

Conclusion

In conclusion, BIS standards serve as a beacon of quality and safety in the realm of drinking water. By establishing stringent criteria and guidelines, BIS ensures that drinking water meets the highest standards of purity and safety. As consumers, it’s essential to be aware of BIS standards and advocate for their implementation to ensure access to safe and clean drinking water for all. So, the next time you take a sip of water, remember the vital role that BIS standards play in safeguarding your health and well-being. Cheers to water quality standards – the unsung heroes of hydration!