Over the past few weeks, multiple residents in Master Para have reported symptoms of water-borne illnesses, including stomach infections and diarrhoea. The sudden spike in cases has triggered concerns among health officials and local residents alike.
District Magistrate Dr. Vishal Kumar addressed media on Sunday, confirming that water samples are being collected from underground tanks and household connections. “Surveillance has been intensified,” he said. “A detailed survey of the water pipeline network in affected areas is underway to identify potential contamination sources.”
Pipeline Network Under the Scanner
The District Administration has tasked teams with tracing possible pipeline leakages and cross-connections that might be allowing sewage water to mix with drinking supplies.
“Agartala’s old water infrastructure is a challenge,” Dr. Kumar stated. “We must ensure that residents receive safe drinking water, especially during the monsoon when contamination risks are higher.”
Officials from the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) are working with the district health authorities to fast-track the inspection process.
Urgent Measures Announced
Dr. Kumar has directed health workers to visit homes in the affected area to educate residents about basic hygiene practices. Distribution of water purification tablets has begun in several neighbourhoods as a preventive measure.
Local health centres have been instructed to stay on high alert and provide immediate treatment to patients showing symptoms of water-borne infections.
Residents Voice Concerns
Residents of Master Para have expressed anxiety over the outbreak.
“My children have been sick for the past week,” said Priya Das, a local resident. “We’ve been advised to boil water, but we need permanent solutions.”
Although, several households have demanded that authorities replace old and damaged pipelines to prevent future crises.
Past Incidents Raise Red Flags
Agartala has previously faced similar issues during monsoon seasons, with old pipelines becoming vulnerable to leaks. In 2023, a minor cholera outbreak was traced back to a broken water pipeline in another part of the city.
Authorities hope that this early intervention will prevent any large-scale health crisis.
Government Focus on Clean Water
Tripura’s government has emphasized clean drinking water as part of its broader health and sanitation policy. Under initiatives like Jal Jeevan Mission. Moreover, significant investments have been made in upgrading infrastructure across urban and rural areas.
However, gaps remain, especially in older neighbourhoods like Master Para.
Dr. Kumar assured the public that long-term solutions are being explored. “We will not just treat the immediate problem but look at comprehensive improvements to Agartala’s water supply system,” he said.
Citizens Urged to Stay Vigilant
District officials have appealed to citizens to report any signs of contaminated water, such as unusual colour, odour, or taste.
“Public cooperation is crucial,” Dr. Kumar emphasized. “Early reporting helps us intervene before infections spread further.”
Residents have also been advised to avoid consuming untreated water and maintain personal hygiene practices like frequent handwashing.
Looking Ahead
As the pipeline survey progresses, officials are confident that potential sources of contamination will be detected and remedied quickly.
The health department continues to monitor the situation closely and will issue updates as necessary.
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