Following the tragic deaths of 17 individuals, including 14 children, in Baddal village of Rajouri district, an initial investigation has pointed to pesticide contamination in a nearby water reservoir as a potential cause. Authorities have raised concerns that the victims may have ingested contaminated water from this source, known as a “baoli.”
However, local authorities have not yet confirmed a direct link between the tainted water and the deaths, and the exact cause of the contamination remains under investigation.
Experts Rule Out Disease Outbreak
A central investigation team currently in Jammu and Kashmir has dismissed the possibility of a “mystery disease” being responsible for the deaths. Initial findings indicate that the fatalities are not linked to a viral or bacterial outbreak, contrary to earlier speculations. Sources have confirmed that the deaths occurred in three separate incidents over the past six weeks, involving three families from Baddal village.
Authorities have already issued an order to block and seal the baoli to prevent further use of the water. There are concerns that the local tribal population may attempt to access the contaminated water despite the restrictions.
Central Team Investigates
On Saturday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah ordered the formation of an inter-ministerial team to assess the situation. The team, composed of officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Health, Agriculture, and other departments, traveled to Baddal village, located approximately 55 kilometers from Rajouri town, to investigate the cause of the deaths.
Upon arriving, the team, accompanied by experts from the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, collected water samples from the area. Early tests detected pesticide residues, raising suspicions that chemicals in the water could be a contributing factor to the deaths.
Neurotoxin Theory Under Investigation
While there has been no definitive conclusion linking the deaths to a neurotoxin, it remains a possible avenue of investigation. Neurotoxins, which can cause significant damage to the nervous system, are being considered as a potential cause of the deaths. Further examinations are ongoing, and the central team is yet to make a final determination.
Surveillance Measures and Health Monitoring
To address the situation, the district administration has been instructed to continue sealing the baoli and to conduct medical screenings for all residents of the village. Despite initial fears, the deaths do not currently represent a public health emergency, according to local officials.
In addition to monitoring the situation locally, central teams have been working alongside local health officials to collect samples and investigate any remaining sources of contamination. The samples collected from the region, including from water and food sources, have tested negative for any viruses or bacteria.
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities remaining vigilant to ensure public safety.
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