Suspected Waterborne Illness Affects 200 in Kupwara Village

SRINAGAR: At least 200 residents of Gammandar Nagri village in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district have fallen ill following a suspected outbreak of a waterborne disease, prompting an administrative response.

Officials said that those affected have reported symptoms including diarrhoea, vomiting, dehydration, and weakness. The local New Type Primary Health Centre (NTPHC) has been converted into a round-the-clock emergency facility.

Teams from the health and Jal Shakti departments were sent to the village. Water samples have been collected and sent for testing. Lab results are awaited.

Locals said the village uses two sources for drinking water—a spring and a recently connected dug well. Many suspect the newly introduced source, but officials have not confirmed whether the contamination came from the well or the spring.

Doctors treating the patients said the situation is under control. “There is no need to panic. Most patients are stable and are recovering with treatment. The lab reports will determine further action,” said a health official.

Residents accused the authorities of negligence, claiming that the well water was never tested before use.

They have requested immediate supply of clean and filtered drinking water and asked the administration to take preventive measures, including regular checks on all water sources.

Health officials have advised people to avoid consuming water from unverified sources and to use only boiled water for drinking and cooking. Residents have also been asked to report any symptoms to the health centre, which is now functioning 24×7. (KNO)