A range of pathogens, including total and faecal coliforms, was monitored in the Kampala
city water supply. The results show that water samples drawn from just-treated water
prior to its distribution to the supply occasionally contained above allowed levels of
pathogen counts. Water samples at consumer points along the supply line contained
fluctuations of total and faecal coliform counts with significant high counts during rainy
season. Owing to sprawling human settlements and various urban construction and
industrialization, interference with the natural drainage system is increasingly creating
effluents significant pathogen and other pollutants into the water system, with concomitant
implications on the efficacy of their removal from the city drinking water supply.
Pathogen levels and the by-products of chlorinating water and associated health
implications are discussed in light of public health, cost effectiveness and sustainability.
Optimal levels of chlorine in water supply line and low faecal coliform bacteria concentration
are important criteria for protecting water quality.