A suspected case of water contamination in Soralamavu village, located in Chikkanayakanahalli taluk, has resulted in the deaths of two individuals, including a young girl. The victims, Gundamma, 60, and Bhuvaneswari, 10, succumbed to severe vomiting and diarrhoea over the past two days, highlighting the dire consequences of contaminated water sources in the region.
Residents report that more than ten individuals have fallen ill, with many currently receiving treatment at various hospitals. Among those affected, Ratnamma, a local villager, has been transferred to Hassan Hospital after her condition deteriorated following initial treatment at the taluk hospital.
The village’s drinking water supply is sourced from a mini water tank, which locals suspect to be the cause of the contamination. Villagers have voiced their frustration over the lack of action from the district administration in addressing such incidents. “Despite recurring incidents, the district administration fails to take necessary preventive measures,” lamented local residents. They expressed dissatisfaction with the authorities, stating that visits and inspections are merely perfunctory, occurring only after tragedies unfold.
The frequency of waterborne illnesses and fatalities in the district has become alarming. In June, seven individuals died in Chinnenahalli of Madhugiri taluk after consuming contaminated water, and shortly thereafter, three more lives were lost in Bullasandra village due to similar symptoms in August. These incidents underscore a pressing public health crisis, with local communities calling for immediate and effective intervention from authorities to prevent further casualties.
The residents’ calls for action are urgent. They are demanding proactive measures to ensure safe drinking water and adequate sanitation facilities to safeguard public health.
The recent fatalities in Soralamavu village serve as a tragic reminder of the critical importance of safe drinking water and effective public health measures. The recurring nature of such incidents calls for a thorough review and overhaul of the district’s water management practices.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of these events, it is imperative for local authorities to priorities public health and safety by implementing preventive measures and ensuring accountability. The lives of residents depend on immediate action to address this ongoing crisis.