12 deaths in 15 days spark concerns about water contamination in Haryana’s Palwal

Of 107 household water samples collected so far, 23 failed quality checks, indicating bacterial contamination and inadequate chlorination.

At least 12 people, including five children, have died in 15 days at Chayansa in Haryana’s Palwal, prompting a health department probe amid growing concerns about contaminated drinking water and infectious disease spread.

Coliform bacteria were detected in storage tanks in another round of testing. Chlorine was found to be absent in dozens of samples before corrective steps were taken. (HT Photo)

Health officials said the deaths between late January and mid-February were linked to severe liver-related complications. Preliminary findings pointed to viral hepatitis and possible water contamination.

On January 31, jaundice-related deaths were first reported in Chayansa, a village of 5,700 people and 865 households. A rapid response team was deployed a day later. Medical camps, door-to-door surveys, and screening of villagers have since followed.

Seven of the deaths occurred between January 27 and February 11. Four of the deaths were due to acute hepatitis or liver failure. The victims were aged between nine and 65. Other deaths reported subsequently were being reviewed. Most patients complained of fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, and jaundice before their condition deteriorated.

Tests to examine the 'contaminated' water are underway.

Palwal chief medical officer Satinder Vashisth said extensive screening and testing are underway. “So far, around 1,500 people, including close contacts of the deceased, have been screened. Nearly 800 outpatient consultations have been conducted, and blood samples were tested for Hepatitis A, B, C, and E,” she said.

Blood analysis of 210 people showed two positive cases of Hepatitis B and nine of Hepatitis C. All samples tested negative for Hepatitis A and E. The scrub typhus results are awaited. Three patients were hospitalised and reported to be stable.

Of 107 household water samples collected so far, 23 failed quality checks, indicating bacterial contamination and inadequate chlorination. Coliform bacteria were detected in storage tanks in another round of testing. Chlorine was found to be absent in dozens of samples before corrective steps were taken.

Residents rely on water supply, underground storage tanks, and tankers. Reverse Osmosis-treated water has been brought from neighbouring areas. Irregular refilling and poor disinfection of underground tanks have raised fears of waterborne infections.

Reverse Osmosis-treated water has been brought from neighbouring areas.

Officials said leptospirosis tests returned negative, and veterinary inspections ruled out animal-linked transmission. As a preventive measure, around 15,000 halogen tablets have been distributed for water purification, and a helpline (01275-240022) has been set up.

A second health official said the investigation is ongoing. “We are examining medical, environmental, and behavioural factors to determine the precise cause of the deaths.” The official added that surveillance and medical camps will continue until the situation stabilises.