Chennai groundwater contaminated by oil leak

Groundwater in northern Chennai, in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, has been found to be heavily contaminated with oil and petroleum products. A preliminary investigation has found oil in water throughout the area, following a reported pipeline leak in July.

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-Madras) were brought in to investigate the source of the oil leak and to confirm the presence of oil in the groundwater of northern Chennai. According to the investigating team's report, the substance found in the area's groundwater is very similar to diesel. The team also theorised that further study of the leak could possibly reveal the location of the oil spill or leak.

There is concern that the groundwater could remain heavily polluted for a number of years if remedial action is not taken to clean up the oil and other contaminants as soon as possible. There is also concern that the highly flammable nature of the substances found could result in fires or explosions, according to the report.

Following the findings of this preliminary report, the southern bench of the National green Tribunal has ordered a more in-depth investigation to take place. The study, which will be conducted by IIT-Madras and the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, will focus on the oil pipelines that run between Ennore and Harbour in North Chennai.

Exploring the state of the pipes in the area could help to pinpoint how the leak or spill occurred as well as flagging up any other problem areas before further contamination takes place.

Experts have warned that local residents should not drink the groundwater that is accessed via boreholes, nor should they use it in any manner. The water will not be safe for use until work is carried out to clean it, and the surrounding soil in the contaminated area, up.

Local residents have also been advised to stay away from any areas where oil is present in the soil as aspects of the spilled diesel oil can cause long-term health problems when inhaled.