Pune: Amid the rising number of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) cases in Pune, a seven-member central team of officials visited the affected areas for inspection.
However, their visit was met with strong opposition from local villagers, who staged a protest in front of the team’s vehicle, accusing them of leaving without conducting a proper survey. The officials were surrounded as the villagers demanded a thorough inspection of the suspected contaminated water sources.
The highest number of GBS cases has been reported in Sinhagad Road, Nanded City, Kirkatwadi, and Ambegaon areas. Investigations have linked the disease outbreak to contaminated well water.
With increasing concerns, the central team arrived for an inspection, but villagers alleged that they were about to leave without examining the water sources.
A female officer from the central team addressed the protest, stating, "Who decided that we are leaving without an inspection? Any findings will be shared as updates." Despite her reassurance, the villagers insisted on an immediate inspection.
PMC Takes Measures Amid Rising Cases
To combat the outbreak, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has intensified door-to-door surveys in the affected areas. Officials have also cracked down on the black-market sale of essential injections used in GBS treatment.
In response to the crisis, Maharashtra’s Health Minister Prakash Abitkar visited the affected areas, inspected hospitals, and reviewed the condition of patients.
Following his visit, he held discussions with PMC officials and directed them to ensure a steady supply of clean drinking water for the residents. Currently, the total number of GBS cases in Pune has surged to 111, prompting authorities to implement stricter measures to contain the spread of the disease.
