Safe drinking water remains a significant concern for rural and tribal communities in Chandel District, Manipur. The present study assessed the water quality over a period of three year (October 2015 to September 2018) by collecting monthly samples from taps, wells, hand pumps, tube wells, springs, three rivers (Maha, Chakpi and Machi) and ponds. Ten physico-chemical and biological parameters were measured and the weighted arithmetic Water Quality Index (WQI) was calculated for summer, winter and rainy seasons. Results showed a marked seasonal influence to tap water and springs were consistently in the “very poor” category (WQI ~86–95), while wells and tube wells were “poor” ranging from 60 to 70. Monsoon rains caused the most severe deterioration in surface water, with Chakpi River scoring 107–161 and ponds around 130, rendering them unsafe for consumption. Hand pumps water, already poor in summer, declined further in winter and rainy periods. Groundwater sources were generally safer than surface water but did not always meet safe limits. These findings underscore the urgent need for improved treatment facilities, regular monitoring, and catchment area protection. Comparison with national and international standards suggests that Chandel’s water quality issues reflect wider regional and global challenges, making local action part of a broader public health priority.
