PMC Intensifies Water Tank Cleaning Amid Rising GBS Cases In Pune

Pune, 22nd February 2025: In response to the increasing number of Guillain Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases in the city, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has cleaned 25 water tanks in the last ten days and plans to complete the cleaning of the remaining tanks soon. The Water Supply Department is expediting efforts to ensure safe drinking water for residents.

The rise in suspected GBS cases, particularly in areas like Khadakwasla, Nandoshi, Nanded City, and Kirkitwadi on Sinhagad Road, raised concerns about contaminated water supply. In light of this, PMC initiated precautionary measures, including an extensive cleaning drive for the city’s water reservoirs.

The city’s advanced Elevated Storage Reservoirs (ESR) and Underground Ground Service Reservoirs (GSR) are undergoing cleaning as part of the initiative. PMC officials confirmed that of the 155 municipal water tanks in Pune, 25 have been cleaned in the past ten days, with the remaining scheduled for completion within a month. During this process, the water supply is being systematically halted in affected areas.

According to Water Supply Department head Nandkishore Jagtap, while cleaning the tanks, accumulated silt and sand are removed to ensure water purity. As these tanks refill up to four times daily, they do not accumulate excessive dirt, but periodic cleaning remains essential. Jagtap assured that precautions are being taken to minimize disruptions in water supply.

Recent water sample tests in GBS-affected areas have detected bacteria linked to the disease, though PMC has yet to pinpoint the exact source of contamination. As a preventive measure, the municipal body ordered a comprehensive tank-cleaning drive. Municipal Commissioner Dr. Rajendra Bhosale directed immediate action to contain the situation.

Additionally, concerns have emerged over Reverse Osmosis (RO) plants supplying unfit drinking water. Following reports of contaminated water, PMC shut down an RO plant, but complaints indicate that several such facilities have resumed operations. Viewing this as a serious public health threat, PMC is considering legal action against violators. A citywide inspection of RO plants will commence on Monday, 24th February, with junior engineers from the Water Supply Department overseeing compliance.

Officials acknowledged that municipal water tanks, due to their size, often collect silt and sand from dam water. While they assured that no chemicals are used during cleaning, they did not specify the frequency of these maintenance operations. PMC remains focused on ensuring clean water supply as part of its broader strategy to combat the spread of GBS.