Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said on Thursday that drinking water will be tested for contamination all over the state, including Bengaluru, to prevent water-borne diseases.
This follows multiple cases of cholera reported in the state. One person recently died, and many others fell ill after consuming contaminated water.
“There have been reports of drinking water contamination in some parts of the state due to rains. This poses a risk of cholera and other water-borne diseases. Hence, we have instructed officials to carry out tests across the state. We have had a discussion regarding this with the Chief Minister,” the Deputy Chief Minister said.
He added that officials have been instructed to provide quality drinking water to people and to carry out periodic tests. Instructions have also been given to repair all dysfunctional drinking water dispensing units.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday reviewed the state’s monsoon preparedness and directed district administrations to take necessary precautionary measures to tackle the situation arising due to heavy rains.
“The Chief Minister and I visited many in-progress infrastructural works in Bengaluru. The CM has given instructions to officials to complete certain works. A task force will also be constituted soon to oversee the progress of works in Bengaluru,” DK Shivakumar added.
When asked about encroachers of stormwater drains and lakes obtaining stay orders for the planned demolition, he said the government will work within the legal framework.
Karnataka is expected to receive above-normal monsoon rains this year.