Ahmedabad has been facing serious health issues due to waterborne and mosquito-borne diseases for many years. In the last decade, nearly 900 people have died from these conditions in municipal hospitals. The rising cases of diseases like cholera, diarrhea, malaria, and dengue are alarming.
Recent statistics show a significant increase in cholera cases. In 2024 alone, there were 20 reported cases of cholera. This is a worrying trend, as the city has seen a steady rise in such diseases. The municipal corporation-operated hospitals, including Shardaben, LG, SVP, and Infectious Diseases Hospital, treat thousands of patients suffering from waterborne illnesses every year. Unfortunately, many do not survive.
From 2015 to 2023, these hospitals have recorded over 107,000 cases of waterborne diseases. Out of these, 466 patients lost their lives. Additionally, malaria and dengue have also taken a toll, with 35,816 patients treated and 431 deaths reported.
The situation has raised concerns about the safety of drinking water. Many people are unknowingly consuming contaminated water, even when they buy bottled water marketed as ‘mineral water.’ The municipal corporation has been criticized for the quality of the water it supplies, which has been found to contain high levels of pollutants.
Local leaders, like Atik Sayyed from the Congress Minority Cell, have pointed out that despite the large budget allocated for disease control, corruption and poor implementation have led to wasted funds. As a result, poor and middle-class citizens are left vulnerable to these diseases.
The health crisis in Ahmedabad is not just a local issue; it reflects a broader problem in urban India. Access to clean water is essential for health, and the lack of it can lead to devastating consequences. The government needs to take urgent action to ensure the safety of water supplies and protect the health of its citizens.
In conclusion, the rise in waterborne and mosquito-borne diseases in Ahmedabad is a public health emergency. The deaths of 897 people in the last ten years highlight the urgent need for better water management and health services. If the situation does not improve, more lives will be at risk. It is essential for local authorities to act swiftly and decisively to address these issues and prevent further tragedies.