Koppal
A suspected case of water contamination has triggered a health crisis in Killarahatti village of Kushtagi taluk, where hundreds of residents have fallen ill over the past few days. Patients, many of them women, children, and elderly, have been admitted to various hospitals in the city, including the government sub-divisional hospital, with symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, dengue, and malaria.
The majority of those affected belong to the Lambani community residing in Killarahatti Thanda, near the historic town of Mudgal. Villagers allege that contaminated water has been supplied to the community for nearly a week due to the negligence of the local panchayat officials. "The illness started after consuming the supplied water," said Balaji Rathod, a resident.
According to Motilal Rathod, a youth from the Thanda, the problem began about 15 days ago but has escalated rapidly. “Now, every household has at least two or three sick members. Out of our population of around 300, most are suffering. For the past three days, people are locking their homes and rushing to hospitals,” he said.
Private hospitals are witnessing a surge in patients. Dr. Satish Raikar confirmed seeing 15 to 20 suspected dengue cases, including patients with low white blood cell counts. “We are treating them based on symptoms and test results. So far, around 30 patients have received treatment,” he said.
The situation has raised serious concerns over water safety and public health infrastructure in the village. Residents demand immediate action and accountability from local authorities.