The presence of an “alarmingly high” level of E.coli bacteria in the section of the River Thames used for the Henley Royal Regatta has raised serious concerns about the safety of the water. According to the Henley and Marlow River Action Group, the average E.coli colony forming units (CFUs) per 100ml of water were found to be 1,213, well above the acceptable limit of 900 CFUs per 100ml set by the Environment Agency for inland bathing water quality standards.
The River Action Group’s findings indicated that the highest recorded E.coli level in the water was a staggering 25,000 CFUs, which is more than 27 times the acceptable limit. The group reported that almost half (47%) of the measurements taken in Fawley Meadows, where effluent from the Henley sewage treatment works enters the river, exceeded the safety threshold of 900 CFU/100 ml. These results highlight the serious health risks associated with swimming in the contaminated water.
Thames Water’s Response
Thames Water, the company responsible for sewage along the Henley stretch of the Thames, disputed the River Action Group’s findings. The water company claimed that their monitoring data showed E.coli levels in the Henley area were within the Environment Agency’s “good” standards during dry conditions. They attributed the occasional spikes in E.coli readings to multiple sources such as farming, industry, road runoff, and wildlife, rather than solely blaming sewage effluent.
E.coli, which is commonly found in faeces, poses significant health risks to individuals exposed to contaminated water. This bacteria can cause various infections including urinary tract infections, cystitis, intestinal infections, stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, vomiting, and in severe cases, life-threatening sepsis. The presence of E.coli in the River Thames raises concerns about the safety of rowers and spectators participating in water activities.
The issue of water pollution, particularly in rivers like the Thames, has become a major concern during recent political campaigns. The Liberal Democrats have pledged to protect chalk streams and bathing areas from sewage dumping, while Labour has promised to hold water company bosses accountable for cleaning up pollution before receiving bonuses. The Conservatives have highlighted their efforts to impose legal requirements on water companies to reduce discharges and increase investments in water quality.
The alarming levels of E.coli in the River Thames, particularly in areas like Henley, raise serious health concerns for individuals who come into contact with the contaminated water. It is crucial for regulatory authorities, water companies, and environmental groups to work together to address the sources of pollution, implement stricter regulations, and prioritize public health and safety in waterways like the Thames.
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