in february 1998, the epa proposed that regulations on drinking water quality standards for suppliers across the country be made available to the consumers. This would let consumers know the current state of water they drink, according to epa administrator Carol M Browner. The regulation will be finalised later this year, with the first annual report to be made available to the epa and the public along with their water bills by October 1999.

This step was taken so that water system in the us becomes more accountable. In 1996, according to the epa , 20 per cent of community water systems did not conduct and report required water safety tests, and 9 per cent violated epa standards.

The new reporting requirements "will ensure that Americans in the 21st century have the information they need about the safety of their drinking water', says the us President Bill Clinton. Across the us , 56,000 community water agencies will have to gear up for submitting the report. The report is to mention the source of the water