Water Pipeline Survey ordered, use restrictions imposed after spike in water-borne illnesses in Agartala

In response to a surge in water-borne illness cases in the Master Para area of Agartala, West Tripura District Magistrate Dr. Vishal Kumar on Sunday announced a set of precautionary measures, including restrictions on the use of water from underground tanks and household supplies.

Around 70 residents have reportedly shown symptoms of water-borne diseases, including fever, dark yellow urine, and signs resembling hepatitis, particularly among children.

To assess the situation firsthand, Dr. Kumar visited the affected locality along with officials from the Agartala Municipal Corporation (AMC), the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DWS), and other concerned departments. During the visit, he interacted with local residents and chaired an on-site review meeting.

"Since June 22, we’ve been receiving multiple complaints from Master Para regarding possible contamination in drinking water," Dr. Kumar told reporters. "Residents have raised concerns about dirty tap water. Based on these complaints, we have directed the DWS and AMC to conduct a comprehensive survey of the water pipeline network. Old or damaged pipelines will be replaced, and workers have been instructed to avoid damaging water lines during ongoing drain construction to prevent contamination."

He further stated that the Chief Medical Officer's office has advised all residents in the area to boil drinking water for the next 15 days as a preventive measure.

While earlier water samples tested negative, Dr. Kumar informed that new samples are now being collected from underground tanks and household connections for further testing.

“So far, around 50 people have reported symptoms, and 10 are currently receiving treatment. There is no epidemic situation, but strict surveillance is being maintained,” he added.