Dabolim housing complex water contamination sparks diarrhoea outbreak

Vasco: Chicalim villagers suspect that diarrhoea in Prabhu Violetta residential complex, Dabolim, has been caused by contaminated water supply from borewells. Sewage release from the complex’s waste treatment plant may have polluted the underground water table.

Over 149 occupants across five buildings fell sick with severe diarrhoea, causing panic in the community.

Health officer at Cortalim primary health centre, Dr Tejan Lotlikar, said water might have been contaminated due to sewage at the building complex. “We will know better once we receive lab reports,” Lotlikar said.

Cyril Fernandes of the Catholic Association of Goa said residents received no immediate help when families first approached govt agencies and local representatives.

Fernandes said that although Mormugao deputy collector, doctors from Cortalim health centre, Vasco police, and other officials inspected the complex and issued notices, the sewage leak remains unresolved.

“The Catholic Association of Goa stands in full solidarity with this residential community and condemns govt’s callous attitude. We demand immediate intervention by chief minister Pramod Sawant to deliver emergency medical aid, provide safe drinking water, and fix sanitation problems,” said Fernandes.