Margao: South Goa Collector Egna Cleetus on Friday said that the number of diarrhoeal cases reported from the Prabhu Violetta residential complex in Dabolim have shown a declining trend, with only two cases reported recently and no new cases reported on Friday.
The complex had seen 156 diarrhoeal cases on Tuesday, and Cleetus said that the situation is now under control, with immediate measures initiated after serious lapses in sewage disposal came to light.
“The Goa State Pollution Control Board conducted an inspection on Monday, which revealed serious lapses in the functioning of the Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) at the premises, including discharge of untreated sewage,” she said.
The first case of illness was reported on March 12, following which multiple complaints were received regarding water contamination and associated health concerns.
Cleetus convened a review meeting on Friday with all stakeholders, including officials from the Directorate of Health Services, Department of Drinking Water/PWD, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, GSPCB, Police Department and local health authorities.
The health department informed that microbiological culture tests were conducted on multiple water samples and findings showed that samples from the garden pipe outlet, borewell and borewell tap outlet were contaminated, while samples from the PWD water supply tank, swimming pool and PWD tap outlets were safe.
Cleetus said that the establishment was directed to stop discharge of untreated sewage immediately. “Arrangements have been made to transport sewage through authorised tankers to the government STP until the internal STPs are made fully functional. Continuous monitoring and weekly compliance reporting have been mandated,” said Cleetus.
The health department has also initiated necessary action under the Goa Public Health Act, 1985, and field teams are actively monitoring the health status of residents. “At present, the situation is under control, and there is no cause for panic. Residents are advised to follow advisories issued by the Health Department and report any symptoms promptly,” said Cleetus.
