Vol. 7, Special Issue 2 (2025)

This study proposes an innovative technique for assessing fecal coliforms in water. The indiscriminate disposal of industrial and municipal waste contaminates groundwater. Water quality is significantly influenced by human and animal waste, household wastewater, industrial effluents, and agricultural pesticide runoff. Insufficient, poorly managed, or absent water and sanitation infrastructure renders drinking water susceptible to pollution. The contamination of water by pathogenic microorganisms poses a significant risk to human health. Diverse microorganisms act as major indicators for evaluating water quality. Our research identifies Escherichia coli (E. coli) as the most appropriate indicator organism for evaluating the potential presence of pathogens in drinking water. This study examines the presence and concentration of fecal coliforms in pond and stagnant water. Sample a (Gairatpur Bas) and B (Sector 28) were obtained for analysis. A test was conducted to identify potential pathogens utilizing a chemically defined culture medium, and the total coliform concentration in water was assessed using the Most Probable Number (MPN) method. The samples were incubated at 39^OC with Bromothymol blue as an indicator dye. The results demonstrated a distinct colour shift from teal blue to yellow, accompanied with gas production and increased turbidity in the fermented broth after 9 hours, so proving the presence of E. coli and, consequently, pathogens. The research revealed substantial discrepancies in fecal coliform concentrations, with pond water and surface water exhibiting elevated contamination levels. Sample a exhibited markedly elevated contamination levels compared to Sample B, as seen by the total coliform count. These findings underscore the necessity for enhanced water purification and effective management measures.