Is Calcutta Tap Water Safe To Drink?
No, it's not advisable to drink the tap water.
Tap water in Calcutta, also known as Kolkata, is treated by the Kolkata Municipal Corporation and is generally intended for drinking. However, contamination can occur through aging pipes, leaks, low pressure, or poorly maintained building storage tanks.
For safer drinking, boil the water or use a properly maintained certified filter, especially in older buildings or areas with irregular supply. Do not drink water that is cloudy, has an unusual smell, or comes from an unclean storage tank.
Last checked: 2026-08-31
India is ranked as number 143 globally with a score of 25.6% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.
Source of Water in Calcutta, India
Tap water in Calcutta, also known as Kolkata, mainly comes from the Hooghly River, a distributary of the Ganges. The Kolkata Municipal Corporation draws and treats this surface water at facilities including the Palta Water Works.
After treatment, the water is sent through the municipal distribution network to homes and businesses. Some outlying areas may also use groundwater, but the city’s main public supply comes from the Hooghly River.
Calcutta Drinking Fountains
Public drinking fountains in Calcutta are not uniformly safe to use. Water may come from a treated municipal supply, but fountain cleanliness, maintenance, and contamination risks vary.
Use a fountain only if it appears clean, well maintained, and regularly serviced. For the safest option, choose sealed bottled water or carry filtered or boiled water, especially during the hotter months.
Drinking Water Map
Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Calcutta. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions. For easy access on the go, download our iOS app to find water fountains nearby.
Nearby Places
About the Author
Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.
I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.
Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job, it's something I truly care about.