Nainital: At least three people have died and more than 60 cases of diarrhoea, vomiting, typhoid and jaundice have been reported in Jeolikote and neighbouring areas of Uttarakhand’s Nainital district, with residents alleging contaminated drinking water is behind the outbreak.
The latest victims were 16-year-old Ritesh Jeena of Sariyatal and 26-year-old Neema Joshi of Jeolikote. Ritesh, who suffered typhoid, vomiting and diarrhoea, was referred to Delhi after his condition worsened and died at Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital following multiple organ failure.
Joshi, a mother of two, was diagnosed with jaundice and liver infection before dying at a Bareilly hospital. She had earlier raised concerns over dirty water supplies.
Residents have alleged that illnesses have been reported since late June. A PIL filed in the Uttarakhand High Court cited over 60 cases and three deaths across Beluwakhan, Jeolikote, Gethiya, Sariyatal and adjoining areas.
It alleged leaking sewer lines, untreated sewage and a faulty pipeline may have contaminated supplies. Water tests reportedly found total coliform and quality irregularities, particularly at the Durgapur source.
Authorities have ordered chlorination, fresh water testing and relocation of a sewage chamber.
Schools have been closed indefinitely, while joint medical teams are conducting screenings.
Officials have also advised residents to boil drinking water and avoid potentially contaminated sources.
