Rajouri, July 2, 2025 : Authorities in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir have sealed five natural springs in Dhar Sakri village of Kotranka sub-division following an outbreak of gastroenteritis and diarrhoea that has claimed two lives and affected dozens in the past week.
According to officials, E-Coli contamination—a harmful bacteria linked to intestinal and urinary infections—was detected in two of the five springs tested. While tap water was found safe, all five springs were sealed as a precautionary measure.
Chief Medical Officer Manohar Lal Rana confirmed around 40 cases have been reported from Sakri, and one from nearby Tralla village. Among the fatalities were a 75-year-old woman with comorbidities from Sakri and a 40-year-old woman from Tralla who suffered from acute dehydration and multi-organ failure.
Following the outbreak, Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Sharma visited the affected area and dispatched medical and water testing teams to collect samples and launch containment measures.
Though the PHE Department does not supply water from these baolis (natural springs), it has chlorinated the sources and sealed off access to prevent further use. Additionally, public health advisories have been issued urging residents to avoid untreated water and consume only safe, treated supplies.
Authorities said awareness campaigns are underway to educate residents on the dangers of consuming contaminated water, and safe drinking water is being provided to the affected population.
