Remarkable Evaluation of Water Security from CIU
Prof. Dr. Rana Kıdak, a faculty member at Cyprus International University (CIU) Faculty of Engineering, highlighted the risks posed by chemical and microbiological pollutants in her evaluation regarding the impact of drinking water quality on public health. Kıdak stated that the protection of water resources, effective treatment processes, and regular analyses play a vital role in providing safe drinking water.
Expressing that the primary elements threatening drinking water quality include heavy metals, pesticides, nitrate and nitrite accumulation, and industrial waste, Kıdak reported that long-term exposure to these substances can cause neurological disorders, kidney and liver damage, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer. She particularly noted that high nitrate concentrations in drinking water can lead to serious health problems in infants affecting oxygen transport.
Stating that microbiological contamination can result from sewage leaks, inadequate disinfection, and poor hygiene in water storage tanks, Kıdak expressed that pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., and Vibrio cholerae can cause diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and acute gastroenteritis. Emphasizing that chemical pollutants manifest their effects through long-term exposure, whereas microbiological contamination can lead to widespread infections in a short time, Kıdak pointed out that children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals may be more vulnerable to these risks.
Noting that control mechanisms throughout the process from the water source to the distribution network are crucial in evaluating drinking water safety in Cyprus, Kıdak shared that water transferred from the Anamur Alaköprü Dam in Türkiye to the Geçitköy Dam via a submarine pipeline undergoes treatment processes. Kıdak stated that periodic analyses conducted by the TRNC Ministry of Health and the Water Works Department are vital for monitoring the quality of water samples collected from storage tanks and the distribution network.
Remarking that the sustainability of drinking water quality is achievable through the protection of water sources, efficient operation of treatment plants, and regular monitoring of distribution networks, Kıdak specified that regular cleaning of indoor water tanks and plumbing installations is essential for hygiene, especially under warm climatic conditions. She emphasized that alongside technical inspections, individual-level measures also play a protective role in ensuring water security.