Daijiworld Media Network – Kaup (TP)

Kaup, Feb 21: Residents within the limits of Majoor gram panchayat have raised serious concerns over severe contamination of a water body near the Shirva main road bridge in Kaup, alleging that stagnant and foul-smelling water is posing health risks to the local community.

According to locals, a vented dam was constructed across the water body to store water during summer for irrigation purposes. However, the situation has worsened over the past three months after a huge tree was uprooted and fell into the stream, blocking the natural flow of water. As a result, water has stagnated, leading to the accumulation of sludge, dry grass, and food waste reportedly dumped by a catering service in the vicinity.

The stagnant water now emits a strong foul odour, making it extremely difficult for residents living nearby to breathe. The unhygienic condition may soon turn into a breeding ground for mosquitoes, increasing the risk of vector-borne diseases.

The contamination could seep into underground water sources and other drinking water supplies in the area, potentially causing serious health issues.

Manish Shetty Padur, a local resident, said, “It has been over three months since the tree was uprooted, and it continues to obstruct the natural flow of the river. We submitted a complaint to the Gram Panchayat two weeks ago seeking immediate removal of the blockage, but no steps have been taken yet. The air in the surrounding area has become extremely difficult to breathe. We also urged the authorities to create a proper channel to ensure smooth water flow, but there has been no response. The stagnant water has turned black and is emitting a foul odour.”

The residents have urged the Majoor gram panchayat authorities to take immediate steps to remove the fallen tree, clear the stagnant water, and ensure proper waste management to prevent further environmental and public health hazards.