TNPCB samples water from farm wells along Palar river in Tirupattur following foam complaints

Residents complained of foaming in agricultural wells used for irrigation and consumption in Chennampettai village. | Photo credit: Special arrangement

An expert team from the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) on Saturday collected water samples from farm wells along the Palar river in Chennampettai village, which falls under Jafrabad village near Vaniyambadi town in Tirupattur, after residents complained of foaming in wells used for irrigation and domestic consumption.

TNPCB officials said that the collected water samples have been sent to the Environmental Laboratory of TNPCB at Vellore for testing the level of TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) and pollutants.

“Testing the water samples will help us understand the extent of specific chemicals and other particles in it. It will also help trace the source of contamination,” a senior TNPCB official told The Hindu.

TNPCB officials said foam formation, especially along the river, is generally due to discharge of untreated sewage from tanneries and local bodies. TNPCB officials said the affected farm wells, which are located about 100 meters from the river, are not located near the tanneries. Most of the tanneries are located downstream of the river.

Such discharge of untreated sewage by small tanneries was noticed at Marapattu Bridge near Vaniyambadi during monsoon. Currently, 133 tannery units are connected to the Vanitec Sewage Treatment Plant (CETP) in the Vaniyambadi region.

In the vicinity of the settlement, where water samples were taken, no discharge of untreated wastewater by local authorities was detected. Testing of water samples will reveal the source of the contamination of these wells.

Residents said more than 80 acres of land along the river is under coconut cultivation. Most of the agricultural wells and boreholes in the region are used to irrigate coconut groves. “Foam formation in farm wells is happening for the first time in this area. District authorities should guide residents, including farmers, in using such water for irrigation and domestic consumption,” said C. Sethuraman, a local environmental activist.

TNPCB officials said a team of experts will coordinate with the Tamil Nadu Water Supply and Drainage Board (TWAD Board) to provide residents with a permanent solution to foaming water bodies, especially farm wells. Currently, TWAD provides 191 MLD (million liters per day) to Vellore, Ranipet and Tirupattur for consumption every day.

Published – 4 Jul 2026 23:06 IST