As floodwaters recede in Amritsar, risk of water-borne diseases emerge

The recent floods have left behind more than just inundated fields and silt-covered homes as they have unleashed a fresh wave of challenges for residents of the affected villages. Health concerns now dominate the recovery process, with reports of snake bites and skin infections already emerging from several localities.

Health officials warn that the stagnant pools of water across the Ajnala and Ramdas belt, present a serious risk of water-borne and mosquito-borne diseases. The conditions are ideal for the spread of ailments such as cholera, diarrhoea and jaundice, while mosquito breeding raises the threat of malaria, dengue and chikungunya. With healthcare facilities already strained, the authorities concerned are treating the situation as a potential public health emergency.

Beyond physical illness, the disaster has also taken a visible toll on mental health of people. Many residents, particularly those who have lost their homes and crops, report heightened anxiety and sleeplessness. The constant fear of snakes and other hazards in shelters has added to their distress. Mental health experts note that such prolonged uncertainty can have long-term psychological consequences if not addressed.

In response, medical camps have been set up in the worst affected villages to provide essential care. Teams of doctors and health workers are conducting house-to-house visits, distributing medicines and advising families on preventive measures. Spraying and fogging operations have also been launched to curb mosquito breeding, though officials acknowledge that the scale of the problem remains daunting.

Children and the elderly remain vulnerable. Health workers have observed a sharp rise in skin infections among children exposed to contaminated water, while elderly residents with pre-existing conditions face heightened risks due to poor sanitation and limited access to clean drinking water.

The authorities concerned emphasised that swift preventive action was critical to avert a health crisis. “The floodwaters may have receded, but the risk of disease outbreak is still very real. Continuous monitoring and public cooperation will be essential in the coming weeks,” said Civil Surgeon Sawarnjit Dhawan.

Dr Dhawan said that people must drink boiled or chlorinated water as it would protect them against water-borne diseases. “Use of mosquito nets and repellents is necessary for tackling mosquito-borne diseases,” he said, adding that health teams were regularly visiting villages to monitor health of the residents.

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