Most residents across Kolkata occasionally experience yellow or brown tap water, a sign of underlying issues in the water supply system or plumbing. Moreover, though discolouration doesn’t always mean the water is harmful, it should never be ignored. In this blog, we will explore the real reasons behind the change in colour and outline practical steps, which include the role of the modern purification system to keep your drinking water safe.
What causes yellow or brown water?
1. Rust from Old Pipes
Kolkata is an old city, and with an aging underground and in-building plumbing, iron and other metals inside corroded pipes get oxidised and slough off as reddish-brown particles. When these iron particles get mixed with water, they cause a brownish or yellow tint. This is one of the most common causes.
2. Slit and Sediment in the Water Supply
During monsoon season or after construction work, soil, sand, and other organic materials enter the municipal supply or local groundwater. Moreover, these suspended particles give water a murky, tea-colored look.
3. Manganese and Iron in Groundwater
In many regions of West Bengal, there are higher amounts of iron and manganese concentrations in groundwater. When these dissolved minerals oxidise and are exposed to air or disinfectants, they can effectively change color and leave particles that discolor the water.
4. Broken Mains or Sudden Water Flow Changes
If a main water source or pipe bursts or there are any maintenance issues, the sudden rush can stir up deposits inside the network. Additionally, you may see brown/yellow water for a few hours or days afterwards.
Is discoloured water dangerous?
Most of the time, water colour comes from harmless minerals like manganese, iron, or natural plant matter. But it can still be a warning sign. Moreover, if the water smells bad, has visible particles, stains clothes or fixtures, or if the people feel sick after using it, treat it as unsafe and report it, and do not consume the water until it has been properly filtered and tested.
Immediate steps you can take at home
If you notice discoloured water at home, then start by running the tap for a few minutes. Such colour is caused by disturbed sediments in the pipes that can effectively settle or get flushed out with continued flow. After that, collect some water in a clean, transparent container and let it sit for a while. Moreover, if you see particles settling at the bottom, the discolouration is likely due to sediment or iron. Avoid using this water for laundry, as it can easily stain clothes and linens.
While boiling the water can kill microbes, it will not remove iron or manganese, so the water may still appear coloured. It is also important to report the issue to the Kolkata municipal water authority or your local ward office so they can investigate any problems in the main supply lines or treatment plants.
Why Choose DrinkPrime
DrinkPrime offers Kolkata households a subscription-based water purification service designed to solve common water issues like turbidity, iron, manganese, and microbiological contamination. Its multi-stage filtration system, combining sediment filters, activated carbon, and RO, removes particles, dissolved metals, and pathogens, making sure that clear and safe drinking water is available even when the municipal supply appears discoloured. Its multi-stage filtration system, combining sediment filters, activated carbon, and RO treatment, removes particles, dissolved metals, and pathogens, making sure that you get clear and safe drinking water even when the municipal supply appears discoloured. Besides, the service includes on-demand installation and regular maintenance, with scheduled filter changes and preventive check-ups so that you don’t have to worry about servicing or filter lifespan.
Summary
In summary, brown and yellow tap water is a major issue in Kolkata, which is usually caused by rusting old pipes and sediment that enters the water supply, which effectively leads to higher levels of iron and manganese in the groundwater. Moreover, sudden changes in the water flow or pipe can stir up deposits and discolour the water. While discolouration is not always harmful, it can be a warning sign if it is accompanied by a bad smell, visible particles, and a stain.
As immediate steps, many residents should run the tap for a few minutes, check for settling particles in a clean and clear container, avoid using any discoloured water for laundry, and report the issue to local authorities. Additionally, for a long-term solution, DrinkPrime’s multi-stage advanced purification system removes sediments, dissolved metals, and harmful contaminants, hence making sure that you consume clear and safe drinking water.
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