Pune GBS Outbreak: PCMC Shuts Down 10 RO Plants, 7 Water ATMs Over Contaminated Water Concerns
Pimpri, 8th February 2025: The Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has launched a strict inspection drive against unauthorized private RO plants bottling contaminated water, in an effort to curb the spread of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS). On Friday, action was taken against ten RO plants and seven RO water ATM plants, with immediate shutdown orders issued to the operators, informed Municipal Commissioner Shekhar Singh.
In the wake of rising public health concerns due to the GBS outbreak, the municipal corporation has intensified its scrutiny of private water purification facilities. Initial water sample tests revealed that several unauthorized RO plants were using contaminated water from borewells and open sources, leading to potential health risks for citizens.
To protect public health and prevent further outbreaks, PCMC’s inspection teams, including deputy engineers, junior engineers, and plumbers at the ward office level, have been actively identifying and shutting down these illegal operations. The inspections so far have resulted in action across multiple wards, including:
F Ward Office: 2 RO plants
D Ward Office: 2 RO plants, 7 RO water ATM plants
B Ward Office: 1 RO plant
C Ward Office: 4 RO plants
H Ward Office: 1 RO plant
Strict Measures to Ensure Safe Drinking Water
Chief Engineer of the PCMC Water Supply Department, Pramod Ombhase, emphasized that strict penalties will be imposed on operators violating the closure orders. “Since clean water is a fundamental aspect of public health, ensuring its quality is our top priority. These illegal bottling plants pose a direct threat to citizens, and we will take all necessary steps to eliminate such risks,” he said.
The PCMC Medical Department has also been instructed to take legal action against those found operating RO plants without proper authorization. Officials have assured that further inspections will continue, and the quality of drinking water in the city will be closely monitored to safeguard public health.
