200 people fall sick due to water contamination: 9 ways to purify drinking water

Over 200 residents fell ill within just two days at Ajnana Homes Society in Greater Noida, sparking fear of drinking contaminated water. As per a PTI report, people reported symptoms such as stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhoea. It is reported that all this happened because of drinking contaminated water supply in the society. Drinking contaminated water poses serious health risks and can lead to a wide range of illnesses, some of which can be life-threatening as well. Chemical contaminants, including heavy metals like lead or arsenic, can damage vital organs and have long-term effects on the nervous system, especially in children. It can also weaken the immune system and increase the risk of chronic health conditions. That’s why ensuring access to clean, safe drinking water is not just a matter of hygiene — it’s a basic necessity for a healthy life. Take a look at these 9 simple and easy ways of purifying drinking water that can be helpful in the long run.

It is one of the most cost-effective and popular methods for making water safe for consumption. Boiling water kills heat-sensitive pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, making the water safe to drink.

In this method, chlorine chemical is added to the water supply to kill harmful microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause waterborne illnesses.

It is a process of purifying water in which impurities and contaminants are separated by passing it through a medium that traps or absorbs them. Filtration can remove particles, sediment, bacteria, viruses, and chemicals that may be present in water.

In this method, water is passed through a device fitted with a carbon filter to eliminate any unpleasant taste or odour from the water, making it fit for drinking.

Desalination is the process of removing salt and other impurities from seawater or brackish water to make it safe for drinking, irrigation, or industrial use.

Under this method, ultraviolet light is used to destroy DNA of microorganisms. It is a fast and chemical-free method of purifying water. It is available in portable pens or built-in home purifiers that are used to purify drinking water. The process is reliable and efficient, as it eliminates up to 99.9% of harmful microorganisms.

Popularly known as RO purification, this technique uses a method where water is pushed through a semipermeable membrane that helps remove salts, heavy metals, microbes, and impurities. It is very commonly used in household water purifiers.

Under this method, iodine tablets or drops are used to disinfect water. It helps kill bacteria and viruses but is not recommended for long-term use or for pregnant women.

Solar water disinfection (SODIS) is a simple and cost-effective technology that uses sunlight to purify water. It involves placing water in a clear plastic bottle and exposing it to sunlight for at least six hours.
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