TV
After the recent scare at Niladri Niwas, panic has once again gripped the capital city as a fresh outbreak of diarrhoea-like symptoms has been reported from a private college in the Khandagiri area in Bhubaneswar. The latest incident has occurred at the campus of Gandhi Vidyapeeth College, where six students have shown symptoms of severe vomiting and diarrhoea.
Health officials’ suspect contaminated water to be the primary source of the outbreak. According to preliminary reports, students began complaining of discomfort and illness over the past two days, prompting college authorities to seek immediate medical intervention.
A health department team has already set up a temporary medical camp within the college premises to monitor and treat affected students. Officials are on high alert and have begun conducting awareness sessions for other students and staff to prevent further spread of the infection.
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In a bid to trace the source of contamination, water samples have been collected from four different locations within the college and hostel premises. These samples have been sent for laboratory testing, and the results are awaited. Until then, authorities have advised all students to avoid using tap water and instead rely on bottled or boiled water.
Speaking on the issue, a senior health official stated, “We are treating this as a precautionary measure but are not taking the situation lightly. Our team is stationed at the college and hostel to ensure no new cases emerge.”
What Steps Taken By College?
The college management has initiated steps to clean and disinfect the water supply system and kitchen areas. If water contamination is confirmed, stricter action will follow, including temporary closure of affected facilities.
BMC Mayor Clarifies
This marks the second suspected diarrhoea outbreak in Bhubaneswar within a short span, raising serious questions about the quality of drinking water in residential and educational institutions across the city. Parents of students have expressed concern and demanded a thorough investigation and permanent solution to the recurring health threats.
BMC Mayor Sulochana Das said, “We have got reports of 5 cases near Khandagiri. Our sureilance teams have reached the spot to review whether it is due to water or food contamination. We are taking appropriate measures for the treatment of the affected ones.”
The health department has assured that a detailed report will be released soon, and further action will be taken based on test results. In the meantime, residents are urged to stay cautious and maintain hygiene to prevent any potential health risks.
