Gandhinagar in crisis: 7-year-old dies, over 100 children hospitalized as contaminated water spreads typhoid
Gandhinagar (The Uttam Hindu): Contaminated drinking water has caused an uproar in Gujarat's capital, Gandhinagar. A large number of people have fallen victim to serious illnesses due to drinking contaminated water in many areas of the city. The most tragic aspect of this outbreak came to light on Monday morning when a 7-year-old girl, Kajal Kanaujia, admitted to the Civil Hospital, died during treatment. The girl's death has created a stir within the local administration and health department.
Kajal was fighting for her life for 15 days
The deceased girl's parents stated that Kajal had been ill for the past 15 days. Initial tests confirmed she had typhoid. When her condition worsened, she was admitted to the Civil Hospital four days ago, where she died this morning. The Civil Hospital Superintendent stated that approximately 150 patients are currently undergoing treatment at the hospital, with two of them remaining in critical condition.
Sectors 24, 26 and 29 are in the worst condition
The worst impact of contaminated water is being seen in Gandhinagar's Sectors 24, 26, and 29. Residents of these areas report that drinking contaminated tap water is causing typhoid and stomach ailments. Worryingly, more than 100 children are among the hospitalized patients. The large number of children falling ill has created panic among parents.
Administration woke up, work to repair leakage started
Following the illness of such a large number of people and the death of a young girl, the administration has swung into action. Teams from the Municipal Corporation and the Water Supply Department have been working to locate and repair leaks in pipelines in affected areas. Furthermore, the Health Department has set up medical camps in affected sectors and is conducting door-to-door screenings. To prevent the spread of infection, chlorine tablets are being distributed to residents, and they have been advised to boil water before drinking.