Jaundice outbreak spreads panic among Cuttack residents

Cuttack: Panic gripped locals of Shikharpur area of Cuttack after fresh cases of jaundice were reported in the area. While residents are living in constant fear because of the outbreak of the water borne disease, they have alleged that the local administration has failed to address drinking water problems and ensure proper drainage system in the locality.

According to sources, more than 20 residents in the locality have been affected by jaundice in the past few days.

Local residents alleged that the water is contaminated due to damaged old pipes which have not been replaced for a very long time.

The locals further alleged that even after their repeated appeals before the Cuttack civic body to repair the pipes, their requests have only fallen on deaf ears.

“Foul smell comes out of the water which is contaminated. The situation is prevailing for the last 5-6 months but the authorities are yet to take any step in this regard,” a local resident Nikita Pradhan said.

According to sources, Choudwar MLA Pravat Ranjan Biswal along with officials of the civic body and various departments of the administration visited the affected area and reviewed the situation.

“The Public Health Division has been directed to repair the pipelines and make necessary arrangements for laying new pipes in the region. Water samples have been collected and sent for testing and administration is taking several measures to stop the disease outbreak,” the MLA said.

Similarly special wards for patients suffering from jaundice will be set up at the SCB Medical College and Hospital, Biswal added.

The MLA further informed that an awareness campaign will be launched in the region to make people aware about the disease.