The Water Quality Campaign started with survey, data sharing, action and further expansion. Study done by SPECS on the town’s water quality in the year ……. was done again in 1998-99 – on a wider scale covering Dehra Dun and Mussoorie, with a refined expertise and methodology. The findings of the study were shared with the larger public and through the media.
Some of our Water Quality Campaigns are:
SPECS's community-based water quality testing campaign known as "Jan Jan Ko Sudh Jal," represents a remarkable initiative aimed at ensuring access to clean and safe water for all. Launched by a team of researchers in 1990, this campaign is centered around engaging community members known as "Jal Prehris" or ‘water guardians’ in the critical task of collecting water samples from each ward.
The campaign operates systematically, with Jal Prehris collecting water samples representing diverse localities. These samples undergo preliminary physical parameter testing by the water guardians themselves. Subsequently, the collected samples are tested for chemical and bacterial properties in SPECS's laboratory, using sophisticated testing methodologies.
The campaign's unique aspect lies in its transparency and outreach. The final water quality reports derived from the laboratory analysis are openly shared with both print and digital media outlets. Additionally, these reports are formally submitted to local administrative bodies for their consideration and necessary actions.
What sets this initiative apart is its inclusivity. Water samples are gathered from various socioeconomic strata, from the less privileged sections of society to higher up government officials including administrators and even ministers of the state government. This approach not only involves comprehensive testing but also highlights the shared responsibility for ensuring clean water, involving stakeholders at every level of governance.
Through "Jan Jan Ko Sudh Jal," SPECS demonstrates a commitment to public health and accountability, advocating for clean water access as a fundamental right. By engaging communities, raising awareness, and involving authorities, this campaign strives to bring about positive change and ensure that everyone, regardless of their social status, has access to safe and potable water.
Water Quality Testing Kit is a comprehensive and reliable solution for assessing water quality parameters. This innovative kit is designed to analyze various crucial factors affecting water quality, including pH levels, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, chlorine, and other contaminants. It enables users to conduct on-site testing efficiently and accurately, providing essential insights into the safety and purity of drinking water or water sources. The kit's user-friendly design and precise testing methods make it an indispensable tool for individuals, environmentalists, researchers, and governmental organizations striving to ensure access to clean and safe water. SPECS's Jal Kasauti plays a crucial role in promoting awareness about water quality and aids in maintaining healthier and safer water supplies for communities.
Educating communities on efficient water usage methods to address water scarcity issues.
Encouraging water conservation techniques and efficient water utilization strategies (Jal Ki Kifayat) play a pivotal role in preserving this vital resource. Educating communities about water-saving practices help mitigate water scarcity issues.
The Water Quality Campaign has now become an annual program , to study and identify water contaminated sites, test their water quality and suggest water purification methods – for the people as well as government agencies. Water testing was sometimes even done at the residences of some of the highest political leaders of the state, including the chief minister. The campaign has resulted in quick response from the concerned departments and supply agencies which led to the improved water supply and purification methodologies.
More importantly, in the process, the campaign helped SPECS to develop a low-cost water testing kit, termed Jal Kasauti, which organizations and even households could use with ease. With Jal Kasauti, “Know Your River” activities were done with children across the state, which not only helped the them gauge the quality of their local streams and water points, but also sparked in them a thought process, discussion and concern for their water sources.
One summer (Year if possible????????) the campaign included testing the water quality of the river Ganga at Haridwar which was conducted with the help of students from a local college. The findings were quite despairing and when published created a furore in the local public which was rather forced local administration to stand up and take action. Going a step further, SPECS engineered a low-cost water purifier – PURER, which was certified by IIT New Delhi. This filter was introduced in the market as well, which was appreciated by people but did not take off due to lack of marketing skills with SPECS.
In 1999-2000, Amar Ujala a leading Hindi daily newspaper approached SPECS to repeat the water-quality survey and promised to cover the campaign exclusively.
The SPECS study team comprised of 45 volunteers Jal Prahari (Water Guard) for each ward of Dehradun city, assisted by SPECS scientists, and a team of 10 more scientists specialized in water issues to monitor and review the team’s work and authenticate its data. Amar Ujala published the SPECS’s report in its entirety and which caught the widespread attention.
Our Water Quality Campaign is primarily led by Jal Prahari, but we welcome anyone interested in understanding and improving water quality to join our cause. We provide proper training and kits for those willing to participate. For more information, feel free to connect with us at 09411719465 or email us at specs.ecocampaign@gmail.com
Together, let us continue our journey towards sustainable water management, ensuring a healthier and more prosperous future for all.