The city of Ambikapur is currently grappling with a severe health crisis as a sudden Ambikapur Jaundice Outbreak has claimed two lives in just 48 hours. With over 60 people reportedly infected, the local administration is under heavy fire for negligence. However, instead of taking accountability, Mayor Manjusha Bhagat has stirred a political storm by suggesting that the outbreak might be a "conspiracy."
Tragic Deaths and Rising Cases
The outbreak has taken the lives of a 13-year-old student and a 40-year-old man.
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Divyansh Rai (13): An 8th-grade student from Namnakala, Divyansh was diagnosed with jaundice on February 19. Despite being moved to a private hospital, he succumbed to the illness on Tuesday.
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Sona Lal (40): A resident of Janpad Para, Sona Lal passed away on February 22 after testing positive for jaundice at the Nawapara UPHC.
Health officials have confirmed that nearly 60 patients have emerged from the Navagarh and Mominpur areas in the last ten days.
Water Contamination: The E. coli Threat
Investigations by the health department have revealed a grim reality. Water samples collected from the affected wards showed dangerous levels of E. coli bacteria. This suggests a massive failure in the municipal water treatment or a leak in the supply lines leading to sewage mixing with drinking water.
While the Ambikapur Jaundice Outbreak spreads, the Municipal Corporation (Nagar Nigam) has only recently begun inspecting the supply lines and cleaning the surrounding filth.
Political Backlash: Congress to Gherao Municipal Office
Former Deputy CM TS Singhdeo has lashed out at the local administration, accusing them of gross negligence. Taking to social media platform X, Singhdeo stated that the signs of an outbreak were ignored for days, leading to preventable deaths.
In response to the administration's apathy, the Congress party has announced a massive protest today (Wednesday). Party workers plan to "Gherao" the Nagar Nigam office, demanding accountability and immediate relief for the affected families.
Mayor’s "Conspiracy" Remark Sparks Outrage
Amidst the mourning and public anger, Mayor Manjusha Bhagat visited the affected areas on Tuesday. However, her statement left many baffled.
"It smells of a conspiracy," the Mayor stated. "Why are patients only being found in this specific area when the entire city drinks the same municipal water?"
Critics have labeled this a "senseless statement" aimed at diverting attention from the failure of the Ambikapur Nagar Nigam to provide clean drinking water.
Practical Safety Tips for Residents
As the city fights this outbreak, residents are advised to take the following precautions:
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Boil Your Water: Ensure all drinking water is boiled for at least 10–15 minutes.
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Avoid Street Food: Refrain from consuming cut fruits or juices from street vendors.
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Report Symptoms: If you experience yellowing of eyes, dark urine, or extreme fatigue, visit the nearest health camp immediately.
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Check Pipelines: Immediately report any leaks in your local water supply line to the ward councilor.
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