Diplomat Correspondent
Rajouri,(DD): The Jal Shakti Department has suspended the water supply scheme for Budhal village after samples from the Bawli spring tested positive for high levels of pesticides and insecticides.
This decision follows reports of 17 mysterious deaths in the past 50 days, intensifying concerns over water contamination as a potential cause.
The contamination was discovered during routine water testing, raising alarms about the safety of the village’s primary water source. Initial investigations suggest a possible link between the pesticide-laden water and the unexplained fatalities, as many locals have reported symptoms consistent with poisoning.
On the directions of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, inter-ministerial teams are already in Budhal to assess the situation and ensure swift action. These teams are coordinating with local authorities to investigate the source of contamination and provide immediate support to affected families.
An official from the Jal Shakti Department confirmed that the spring has been sealed off, and alternative water arrangements are being made to prevent further casualties. Preliminary findings indicate that excessive pesticide use in nearby agricultural fields may have leached into the water supply, leading to the contamination.
Health teams are actively monitoring the situation, providing medical care to affected individuals, and raising awareness about safe water practices. The incident highlights the urgent need for stricter regulations on pesticide use and enhanced monitoring of water sources to prevent such tragedies in the future.(DD)