Sambalpur: Jaundice Situation in Sambalpur; Contaminated Water Behind Infections
- The number of Infected Reached 69
- Two Admitted to Nursing Homes
- Inspections Continue
- House-to-House Survey Ongoing
Sambalpur: The jaundice problem in Sambalpur Municipal Corporation is worsening by the day. According to the Health Department, house-to-house surveys in areas such as Kumharpada, Saliabagicha, Pensionpada, and Dhobapada revealed new infections today, bringing the total number of infected people to 69. All identified infected individuals are under the age of 20, with two admitted to nursing homes for treatment.
Dr. Ashok Kumar Dash, ADPHO, reported that previously collected PHED water samples tested positive for contaminants. Several measures are being implemented in response to the identification of jaundice issues in the municipality. Today, several actions have been taken, including the seizure and destruction of food and ice from certain street vendors and ice factories. Municipal Commissioner Bedabhushan provided this information, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to control the outbreak.
Jaundice Problem Re-emerges in Sambalpur After a Decade, Causing Concern
Everyone is alarmed by the resurgence of jaundice in the Sambalpur Municipal Corporation area after a decade. Initially, 22 cases were reported, which later increased to 59, and today, 9 more cases have been identified, bringing the total number of infected individuals to 68. According to the Health Department, the infection is primarily caused by drinking contaminated water or eating street food. The Health Department is conducting house-to-house surveys, with fears that the number of infections will increase even further. Along with the surveys, the department is providing necessary medicines and health advice to infected people.
It should be noted that a few months ago, jaundice spread throughout the Hirakud area due to PHED water issues. The recurrence of the jaundice problem in Sambalpur after 2014 has sparked widespread concern. During that time, approximately 10,000 people in Sambalpur developed jaundice as a result of contaminated water, killing several.
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Contaminated PHED Water Behind Current Jaundice Infections, Echoes of 2014 Crisis
The recurrence of jaundice in Sambalpur after a decade, caused by contaminated PHED water, has raised widespread concerns. Previously, contaminated water, ice, and street food were identified as possible sources of the infection. Today, the Health Department confirmed that PHED water samples tested positive for contamination. It has been discovered that water supplied by the PHED is being used to prepare street food and ice, resulting in the spread of the infection.
During the 2014 jaundice outbreak, Amrut Yojana-1 and Amrut Yojana-2 received significant funding to provide clean water to Sambalpur residents. New pipelines were installed to transport water from the Hirakud Dam, and all old pipelines in the city were replaced. Despite the crores spent, the recurrence of jaundice after ten years as a result of contaminated PHED water remains a major concern.
Many of the city’s water pipes run alongside drainage lines. Pipes burst and leak frequently, contaminating drinking water. The administration is urged to take immediate action to provide clean drinking water to the community. The city’s intelligentsia has demanded immediate action to address this issue.
