Five Water Sources Sealed Waterborne Illness Outbreak in Rajouri: Jal Shakti Department Acts Swiftly

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

Contaminated Supplies Closed Off; Public Awareness Campaign Launched

LIAQAT ALI KHATANA 

RAJOURI JUNE 30:-In the aftermath of recent heavy rains, Rajouri district has witnessed a spike in cases of waterborne illnesses, including diarrhea, vomiting, and high fever. The alarming health concerns prompted immediate action from the Jal Shakti Department (PHE), Rajouri, in coordination with its Sub-Division Kotranka.

Assistant Executive Engineer (AEE) Ashfaq Ahmed, Executive Engineer (Ex En) Sudesh Bhagat, and Superintending Engineer (SE) Hydraulic led the rapid response to contain the outbreak. Multiple suspected sources—including traditional bowlis (spring-fed water points) and storage tanks—were inspected, chlorinated, and sanitized during an intensified field operation.

Water quality testing confirmed the presence of E. coli bacteria in five local sources, which were immediately sealed to prevent further contamination.

In tandem with fieldwork, the department launched an aggressive public awareness campaign. Teams fanned out across affected areas, conducting door-to-door visits and using mosque and temple loudspeakers to educate residents about safe water practices. Citizens have been advised to boil water before consumption and use purified water for cooking.

“We are monitoring the situation closely and taking every possible step to ensure public safety,” stated a senior official from the department.

Authorities have assured the public that water quality surveillance will continue round the clock. In addition, the department has committed to tracing the root cause of contamination and establishing long-term preventive measures to avert future outbreaks.