India Floods: Delhi May Face Water Crisis, Here Is How To Use Traditional Methods To Purify Water

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Heavy rains and flash flood in India has resulted in several deaths and destruction around the country. In recent updates, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday said that Delhi could witness a drinking water crisis in some areas.

"Some places in Delhi could witness a shortage of water because the Wazirabad, Chandrawal and Okhla Water treatment plants have been shut down," the chief minister said.

And experts stated that more cities may face the same water issue as that of Delhi suggesting that people should be wary of the situation and find ways to collect and store clean water for drinking and other purposes.

So to help out, we have curated a list of methods to purify water! Take a look.

How To Use Traditional Methods To Purify Water?

Method 1: Boiling

Boiling water is one of the oldest and most reliable methods of purifying water. By bringing water to a heavy boil for at least 3-5 minutes, harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites can be effectively killed. This method has been proven to be useful in killing water-borne diseases like cholera, typhoid, and dysentery [1].

Method 2: Solar disinfection

Also known as SODIS, solar disinfection is an eco-friendly method that makes use of the sun's UV rays to purify water. The process involves filling clear plastic bottles with water and leaving them in direct sunlight for at least six hours [2].

The UV radiation from the sun kills harmful bacteria and viruses, making the water safe to drink.

Method 3: Charcoal filtration

Charcoal has natural adsorption properties, making it an excellent medium for filtering water. Crushed charcoal can be placed in a container and used as a filter to remove impurities [3].

Method 4: Filtration

Filtration is another traditional method of water purification that can help remove impurities and contaminants. A simple cloth filter, made by layering a clean cloth over a container and pouring water through it, can effectively remove larger particles, sediment, and debris.

However, it is important to note that the filtration method may not be sufficient to eliminate all microorganisms.

Method 5: Neem leaves

Neem leaves are mainly known for their medicinal properties but it can also be used for water purification. You can filter water by adding a few neem leaves to the contaminated water and allowing it to sit for a few hours [4][5].

However, it is important to note that this method may not effectively remove chemical contaminants.

Method 6: Copper vessels

Storing water in copper vessels overnight can help kill bacteria and other harmful microorganisms. Copper has antimicrobial properties that can purify water naturally [6].

However, it would be best if you use the water stored in copper vessels after boiling it.

Method 7: Traditional water storage

In areas affected by floods, people often resort to storing water in large containers or earthen pots. While this method does not purify the water, it helps in settling suspended particles and sediment, making the water cleaner.

The containers used for storage must be clean and free from any contaminants.

On A Final Note...

When faced with a water crisis, it becomes extremely important to find alternative methods to make water safe for consumption.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.