Jaundice in Odisha on the High: Rs 100 Crore Measure by Patnaik

The Odisha Chief Minister, Naveen Patnaik has taken measures for replacing and overhauling the water supply system following jaundice outbreak. Apparently, since May, 17 people have died and 1,547 found infected. Poor drainage system and damaged water pipelines are major reasons behind the outbreak. With nearly over two-lakh population, the town is suffering with bad sewerage systems. The water pipelines were rusty and leaking due to which the drain water seeped into the drinking water, which caused contamination. The Government has promised to bear cost of examination and treatment for the jaundice affected patients.

Chief Minister’s Promise:

The 100 crore announcement has been made to establish underground piped water supply and major intermittent watercourse that drain into Mahanadi river will be renovated. The Chief Minister has also promised to install 500 PVC tanks so as to provide safe, consumable drinking water.

In addition, 50 community toilets will be built, modern sewerage and underground system will be done, Dhobjor Nullah, Haradjor and Tangna Nullah will be renovated. Also, pumping stations will be established to drain out flood water before next monsoon.

"Twenty-four new people were found suffering from jaundice Tuesday. The death toll due to the disease, however, remained unchanged at 17," chief district medical officer J.K. Samantaray told IANS.

"Since jaundice virus takes several days for incubation, it may take some more days to control the situation fully," the health official said.

Source-Medindia