Chennai Metrowater lacks PFAS removal technology for lakes

Chennai's water utility, Metrowater, has stated it cannot remove "forever chemicals" (PFAS) from the city's lakes due to current treatment limitations. This poses a health risk to residents. The utility explained that PFAS contamination comes from everyday items like food packaging that break down in landfills, contaminating groundwater. Existing treatment plants cannot effectively remove these chemicals, and current drinking water standards don't address them. Metrowater is advocating for preventive measures, such as controlling PFAS use in packaging and industry, as advanced removal technologies are expensive and unproven at scale.