Concerned over a sudden increase in jaundice cases in the capital city from 12 to 30 on Friday, the State Government advised denizens only to use PHED water and stop using dug-well water.
Urban Development Minister Puspendra Singh Deo, after reviewing a meeting on jaundice, told mediapersons that all the contaminated tube-wells in the city would be closed forthwith and restrictions have been issued to people not to use dug well water. Alternative provision for safe drinking water would be made for people, he said.
“Ward-level welfare committees will be constituted to check possible sources of water contamination. Besides awareness, vans will move around the city from tomorrow,” said the Minister.
Jharana Basti, a slum in Ward-53 where Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s residence is located, was found to be the epicentre of the disease reporting all the 30 cases, health officials said after a field visit.
Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) Mayor Anant Narayan Jena, who is monitoring the situation, said, “We have started supplying water in the area through tankers since morning. Besides, we have urged the residents to improve cleanliness and sanitation. The situation is under control.”