The readings confirmed significant faecal contamination and mirrored previous results recorded by uMngeni-uThukela Water.
Alarmingly high levels of E. coli have been detected in the Dusi River during the launch of a new mobile laboratory developed to track water pollution in real time.
Testing conducted on launch day recorded E. coli counts of 1 624 colonies per 100 millilitres of water — more than 12 times higher than the acceptable threshold of 130 colonies per 100 ml for recreational use.
“At concentrations above that, the water from the Dusi is unsuitable for human use and should be used cautiously when irrigating crops,” said Matthew Burnett, principal scientist at the Institute of Natural Resources (INR).
The readings confirmed significant faecal contamination and mirrored previous results recorded by uMngeni-uThukela Water, validating the credibility of the newly deployed testing system.
The mobile laboratory, named the EnviroLab, is a custom-built Land Cruiser developed by INR in collaboration with the UK’s Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC).
Designed to operate in remote and rugged environments, the vehicle is fitted with advanced equipment for rapid, sterile water analysis. It can process multiple samples per day, delivering results within 10 minutes to 24 hours, depending on the test.” Seeing our results match up confirms the credibility of what we’re doing,” said Burnett.
Equipped to test for microbes, heavy metals, nutrients and environmental DNA, the lab operates using a 240-volt system and includes an incubator, vacuum pump and fume hood.
Burnett added that the EnviroLab would also serve as a tool for environmental education.
“While in the field, we can test the water and explain it to the community right then. It then becomes an environmental educational tool too.”
Chief scientist Jon McCosh described the EnviroLab as a legacy project.
“We see EnviroLab at the front end of research into mitigation measures and adaptation strategies to navigate the challenges of climate change,” he said.
JNCC environmental pollution strategy lead Jason Weeks said: “We’re confident it will support the gathering of data to fill further research gaps and better understand the wider effects of pollution on humans and the environment.”
McCosh added: “The versatility of EnviroLab makes it a great asset in managing our aquatic ecosystems.
See article in The Witness here.
