Hayleys Fabric, a prominent textile manufacturer in Sri Lanka, has joined forces with the University of Sri Jayewardenepura for an extensive research endeavor focused on assessing pollutants in the Kelani River basin. The study, a pioneering effort in evaluating antibiotic resistance in running water sources utilized for human consumption within the basin, aims to foster strategic measures for safeguarding surface and groundwater, thereby advancing public health and safety.
The collaborative research project will encompass screening and quantifying antibiotic residues in surface water, identification of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and their resistance mechanisms, and quantification of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) to elucidate the correlation between ARGs and antibiotic residues.
With 27 sample collection points selected based on diverse parameters such as catchment characteristics and anthropological activities, the study is poised to offer valuable insights to policymakers and stakeholders. University of Sri Jayewardenepura Vice Chancellor Senior Prof. Pathmalal M. Manage expressed optimism about the collaborative efforts, emphasizing their potential to enhance understanding of Kelani River water quality and contribute to environmental and public health protection.
The initiative, spearheaded by Hayleys Fabric Managing Director Rohan Goonetilleke, underscores the significance of scrutinizing the impact of the Kelani River on public health, given its vital role in catering to the water needs of a substantial portion of Sri Lanka’s population.
