Ahead of the prestigious Oxbridge Boat Race, alarming levels of E.coli contamination have been detected in the Thames, especially near Hammersmith Bridge, raising significant health concerns. Thames Water and the Environment Agency face criticism for the pollution linked to sewage discharges, as elite rowers and organisers adapt to stringent safety advisories.
Elevated levels of E.coli bacteria have been identified in the River Thames, particularly around the Hammersmith Bridge area in west London, raising health concerns ahead of the prestigious Oxbridge Boat Race. Tests revealed an average contamination of 2,869 E.coli colony forming units (CFU) per 100ml of water, surpassing the Environment Agency’s acceptable threshold of 1,000 CFU per 100ml, with the highest level recorded being almost 10 times above the agency’s poor standard.
This pollution has been attributed to sewage discharges by Thames Water into the river and its tributaries, specifically in the Greater London stretch of the Thames. The situation has prompted urgent safety advisories for rowers, advising against entering the water, covering open wounds, avoiding swallowing water, wearing protective footwear, and ensuring equipment is thoroughly cleaned.
Elite rower Imogen Grant has voiced concerns over the dangers posed by the contaminated waters to athletes, highlighting the need for immediate action to improve water quality. In response to the findings, River Action has criticized Thames Water and the Environment Agency for their roles in the pollution, urging greater accountability and transparency in water quality management.
Thames Water has acknowledged the issue, announcing plans for extensive upgrades to their systems aimed at reducing sewage discharges during wet weather and improving overall river health. Despite the concerns, the 78th women’s and 169th men’s Boat Races are scheduled to proceed as planned, with participants and organizers adjusting to the new safety guidelines.