Urge authorities make public findings of water samples taken for testing
The housing complex in Dabolim which has seen a surge in diarrhoea cases.
VASCO
Alleging contaminated water supply as the likely cause behind a surge in diarrhoea cases which have crossed 149, residents of Prabhu Violetta housing complex in Dabolim have sought the findings of water samples collected by various departments.
Addressing media persons on Thursday, residents said the situation has worsened over the past few days, with several families affected across the complex. While official figures indicate 149 cases, residents claim the actual number could be significantly higher, estimating that nearly 300 people are unwell.
A resident said the issue was first reported earlier this month, following which the health department conducted multiple inspections.
“When the situation began, we informed health authorities, who visited the site on the March 14 and instructed the builder to clean the premises. Cases of diarrhoea started emerging from that point. Subsequent visits on the March 16 and 17 recorded a steady rise—from around 65 cases to nearly 149. These are only documented figures; a door-to-door survey suggests the number could be much higher,” the resident said.
Residents have demanded that authorities make public the findings of water samples collected by various departments.
“It has been over a week and people continue to suffer. We want the results of the water testing conducted by the health, PWD and WRD departments so that the exact cause can be established. Safe drinking water must be ensured immediately for all 300 odd flats in the complex,” the resident added.
Allegations were also levelled against the builder, with residents claiming negligence in maintaining the premises.
“We had emailed the builder on March 13 but received no response, nor has he met us. As per our agreement with Prabhu Realtors, maintenance is their responsibility. The current situation points to a serious lapse on their part,” another resident said.
Residents further claimed that complaints regarding sanitation and sewage issues have been raised since 2021, but no lasting solution has been implemented.
“Instead of acting against the builder, authorities are warning residents of disconnection of water and electricity if sewage issues persist. This is unfair. Action must be taken against those responsible, while ensuring residents are provided safe water,” a resident said.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, another resident said people of all age groups—including children and the elderly—have been affected, with several hospitalised in government and private facilities.
“Despite repeated complaints about foul-smelling water, we were only advised to boil it before consumption. Water sample results are expected only on March 28, leaving residents anxious about how to cope in the meantime. Authorities must act immediately and not wait for the situation to turn fatal,” the resident said.
Residents have urged immediate intervention by the government and the health minister to identify the source of contamination and restore safe living conditions in the complex.
