A diarrhoea outbreak in Goa’s Dabolim area has affected 149 residents within a week, raising concerns over water contamination. Authorities have launched an investigation, collected samples, and halted borewell supply as a precaution.
Health officials suspect contaminated water as the likely cause of the illness.
Panaji: A sudden outbreak of diarrhoea has been reported from a residential complex in Dabolim, South Goa, with at least 149 cases detected within a week. Health officials suspect contaminated water as the likely cause of the illness.
The cases emerged from the Prabhu Violetta residential complex, which houses nearly 200 apartments. Authorities said the affected individuals include children and elderly residents.
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According to officials, many residents reported symptoms such as vomiting, dehydration, and severe abdominal pain. Several individuals required hospitalisation due to the severity of their condition.
Health authorities began monitoring the situation after a rise in cases was observed from March 14 onwards.
A door-to-door survey conducted by the local primary health centre helped identify the scale of the outbreak. By March 17, at least 149 cases had been recorded, indicating a rapid spread within the residential community.
Medical teams continue to track new cases and provide treatment to affected residents.
Authorities have collected water samples from multiple sources within the complex, including household taps, an underground water storage sump, a swimming pool, and treated sewage lines used for gardening.
The investigation aims to determine whether contaminated water triggered the outbreak.
Residents have filed a police complaint against the builder, Prabhu Realtors, alleging that untreated sewage was being discharged within the premises. They claim this may have compromised water quality and posed a serious health risk.
As a preventive step, health officials have directed an immediate halt to borewell water supply in the complex until test results are confirmed. The Goa State Pollution Control Board has also conducted an independent inspection. Authorities have assured that necessary action will be taken once the source of contamination is identified.
