Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik sanctions Rs 100 crore to replace Sambalpur water lines

SAMBALPUR (ODISHA), Dec 24 (PTI) Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today announced Rs 100 crore for replacement and overhauling of water supply distribution network in Sambalpur after he visited the city to take stock of the situation arising out of jaundice spread.

After reviewing measures undertaken to contain the disease, Patnaik announced a Rs 100 crore package for change of the water supply distribution network.

He also announced that 500 PVC tanks would be installed at strategic locations of the city to provide safe drinking water to the people to combat the disease.

Moreover, the Chief Minister announced about 50 community toilets, modern underground sewerage system, Rs 60 core for renovation of Dhobjor Nullah, Haradjor and Tangna Nullah of the city, besides pumping stations to pump out flood water before the next monsoon.

Of the 38,000 household in the city, 10,000 do not have toilets.

The announcement for change of water supply network came as a respite for the people as about 77 per cent household of the city are dependent on the PHED water supply.

Contamination of the drinking water was said to be the reason behind the spread of jaundice in the city.

As per reports, 1,547 persons have been infected by the disease in Sambalpur, while 17 deaths have already been reported in the city.

The Chief Minister also visited the district head quarter hospital in Sambalpur after the review meeting.

Patnaik said the notification regarding Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Science and Research had already been issued by the state government.

Veer Surendra Sai Medical College Hospital would be converted to Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Science and Research from January 1, 2015, he said.

Health minister Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak, Chief Secretary G C Pati, Urban Development secretary, G Mathivathanan, health secretary Arati Ahuja were among those present at the review meeting.