Cuttack: Jaundice scare gripped Cuttack city after 17 persons were tested positive with the disease. After a preliminary investigation by the Collector Nirmal Chandra Mishra along with a special team around 17 persons have been identified with the disease at Nuasahi in Jobra area of Cuttack. According to sources, leakages in drinking water supply pipes in the area are suspected to be the reason behind the spread of the disease.
“Around 16-17 sporadic cases of Jaundice have been reported in the area. We have identified leakages in the drinking water pipeline and because of it some areas might have been affected. We are currently reviewing the situation and areas which could be vulnerable to drinking water contamination due to leakages,” said Mishra.
Cuttack Collector informed that water samples from the area will be sent for examination. Moreover, special arrangements will be made at the Cuttack hospital for the infected. The district collector has also ordered the Cuttack Municipality Corporation and PHD to keep a close eye on the situation to prevent it from spinning out of control.
Following the Collector’s order, the civic body officials also visited the spot and started supplying safe drinking water through tankers.
"We are providing safe water through tanker at affected areas. The sanitary officials have started distributing halogen tablets, bleaching powder and cleaning the drainage", Ranjan Biswal, CMC health committee president, said.
After reviewing the situation, the collector also convened a meeting with the senior officials of district administration.
"I have already ordered the concerned officials to examine all distribution lines of piped water. If any contamination is reported, the pipes would be replaced", Mishra pointed out.