Sambalpur: Sambalpur’s Jaundice Crisis; Contaminated Water Pipes and Streetfoods Like Gupchup, Dahibara, Chuski to Blame
Sambalpur: Jaundice has made a comeback in Sambalpur. In 2014, the infection spread from the water supply source. This time, the source of the outbreak is different. The city’s entire drainage system has become a tangled web of connection pipes. Main pipes along main roads have been connected to each house via sockets. During these connections, the city’s drainage pipes served as pathways for drinking water supply pipes. Because all pipes run through drains, they are submerged in wastewater at various points. Despite the fact that this situation has existed for many years, the water supply department has not taken it seriously. After jaundice cases were identified in the city, pipes in Saliabagaicha and Kumbharpada were inspected and replaced.
Online Sambalpur Is Now On WhatsApp!
Join us for the latest news updates delivered directly to your WhatsApp.
Subscribe Us On YouTube!
Join us for the latest news updates and video content delivered directly to you.
Meanwhile, temporary street food stalls selling gupchup (pani puri) have appeared on every corner, crossing, and street. The sour water used in gupchup is suspected of causing jaundice. It is suspected that the water used, as well as vendors’ repeated dipping of their hands into the sour water, are spreading the infection. Another suspected cause is open ice lollipops consumed by children, for which the administration holds responsibility. Ice from akhuras (juice shops) and dahi vada (a popular street food) is also thought to be contaminated. Intellectuals are demanding that all city water pipes be inspected on a regular basis, as well as restrictions on the sale of food prepared with open ice.
Health officials are currently collecting samples from various locations. Instructions were given to remove illegal pipe connections within four days. And finally, the Sambalpur Food Safety Department has taken action. In response to the increasing number of jaundice cases, an ice warehouse was sealed today due to the use of non-potable water, as informed by the district administration.
