Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Aug 3: At least 19 cases of gastroenteritis-mostly among children-have been reported from Wurpash Malang Muhalla in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, due to the consumption of contaminated drinking water, locals claimed today.
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Locals said that while these patients are being treated at the hospital, more cases are emerging, with individuals exhibiting symptoms consistent with gastroenteritis.
Officials, however, said that only eight children are currently undergoing treatment at the District Hospital and are recovering well.
Mushtaq Ahmad Wani, a local resident from Wurpash, said many people in the area have been experiencing similar symptoms over the past several days, with contaminated water suspected to be the cause.
While laboratory results of the collected water samples are still awaited, residents remain convinced that poor water quality is to blame.
“It is due to the impure water. So far, 19 people-15 children and 4 adults-have been admitted here. More may arrive for treatment,” Wani told Excelsior at the DH Ganderbal.
A health official, who wished not to be named, confirmed that samples have been collected and advisories issued, urging residents to boil water and maintain hygiene.
“Water and other relevant samples have been sent for laboratory analysis to identify the source of infection,” the official said, adding that these were “usual admissions.”
“We’ve taken all necessary measures as per protocol. Once lab results are available, further preventive steps will follow. We’ve also educated locals on precautionary measures,” a doctor said.
Muhammad Younis, another resident, said the exact cause is still unclear but alleged issues with the water supply. He blamed the Public Health Engineering (PHE) Department for negligence.
“There are damaged pipes and employees who don’t report for duty. No one is monitoring the situation. Chlorination hasn’t been done. Only now that cases are being reported is action being taken,” he alleged.
Locals also claimed there have been a few suspected cases of hepatitis-a waterborne disease-and that test results, according to doctors, are expected by Monday.
Officials from the PHE Department in the district could not be contacted.
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