With the ongoing rainy season, Jalandhar residents are dealing with a concerning scenario as the city struggles with water-borne illnesses. Infections like stomach infections, viral fevers, jaundice, gastroenteritis, and skin conditions are more common during this time of year, which local doctors frequently regard as the peak season for their practices.
In many Jalandhar localities, tainted drinking water is a problem because of municipal corporation negligence, despite continuous awareness campaigns about preventing these diseases. According to recent inspections, water samples taken in July from different parts of the city have failed quality tests. Localities like Babu Labh Singh Nagar and Baba Kahan Das Nagar, Dilbagh Nagar, Ratan Nagar, Bhargava Rasila Nagar, and Mittha Bazaar are particularly affected.
Mittha Bazaar has experienced recurrent issues with three to four failed tests for water samples. As more and more areas of the city depend on deteriorating pipes and aging water supply lines, worries are rising. Water supply pipes frequently cross or run next to sewer lines. These sewer lines have the potential to overflow and contaminate large areas of the drinking water supply.
While the Municipal Corporation has taken corrective action to address some of these issues, the ongoing problems highlight the pressing need for a comprehensive evaluation and modernization of the city's water infrastructure. Given the persistent risk of water-borne illnesses among residents, there is an urgent need for improved management and maintenance of water supply systems to ensure that everyone has access to safe and clean drinking water.