Bhatkal: A training workshop on drinking water quality testing using Field Test Kits (FTK) was held at the Bhatkal Taluk Panchayat meeting hall, jointly organised by the District Panchayat, the Rural Drinking Water and Sanitation Department, and the District Laboratory.

Speaking on the occasion, Taluk Panchayat Executive Officer Sunil said personnel involved in water testing must properly utilise the training and conduct tests using the kits provided. He stressed that any abnormality detected in test results should be addressed immediately, warning that consumption of water with mineral content beyond permissible limits can pose serious health risks.

Assistant Executive Engineer of the Rural Drinking Water and Sanitation Sub-Division, Bhatkal, Ashok Vaddar, said water sample collectors must carry out testing within the stipulated time, maintain proper records, and promptly report any irregularities to the district laboratory. He noted that water sources such as wells may get contaminated due to sewage seepage and said ASHA and Anganwadi workers can also test private wells and ponds during household visits.

JJM District Programme Manager Venkatesh Naik informed that the FTK campaign will be implemented mandatorily, with water samples from all villages to be tested between February 2 and February 13, 2026, and the results uploaded on the WQMIS portal with the support of Gram Panchayat staff.

Taluk laboratory analyst Deepa and water sample collector Mithun provided practical guidance on testing procedures and kit usage. Engineers, Gram Panchayat officials, Village Water and Sanitation Committee members, data entry operators, watermen, and other taluk panchayat staff attended the workshop.