Pune: In response to rising cases of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) linked to contaminated water, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has announced a citywide cleaning drive for over 350 water tanks in the next month. The preventive measure is expected to cause temporary disruptions in the city's water supply.

Recent water quality tests in areas such as Dhayari, Nanded, Kirkatwadi, Narhe, and Sanswadi revealed the presence of E. coli bacteria, a key factor in GBS infections. These areas do not receive municipally treated water, raising public health concerns.

In response, PMC has been implementing preventive measures, including:

• Adding chlorine to well water to reduce bacterial contamination.

• Installing protective nets on wells to prevent dirt and debris from entering.

• Inspecting wells and RO plants that supply tanker water; authorities have taken action against those found contaminated.

The National Institute of Virology (NIV) had earlier confirmed that contaminated water is a significant cause of GBS, prompting the PMC to accelerate cleaning operations.

Prithviraj B.P., Additional Commissioner, PMC, assured residents: "The PMC will launch a month-long cleaning initiative, covering water tanks across different parts of the city. However, cleaning the tanks while maintaining the regular water supply remains a logistical challenge."

"All water tanks will be cleaned, and sanitation around them will be strictly maintained. Additionally, damaged sewage pipelines will be repaired to prevent leaks and contamination. The PMC will take steps to ensure that the daily water supply is not severely disrupted during this process."

The Parvati Water Center, which serves as a major water distribution hub for Pune, will play a crucial role in managing water supply during the cleaning drive. Water supply to different tanks will be temporarily suspended in phases, ensuring that residents face minimal inconvenience.