Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has issued urgent directives to state and civic officials following a concerning outbreak of typhoid in parts of Gandhinagar. The outbreak, traced to contaminated drinking water, has already affected over a hundred residents, with a majority being children.
CM Chairs High-Level Meeting, Demands Action
During a high-level review meeting held on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, Chief Minister Patel instructed authorities to intensify all measures for treatment, disease control, and prevention. The meeting was attended by top officials from the State Health Department, Gandhinagar district administration, and the Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation (GMC).
The CM specifically ordered field inspections of all ongoing pipeline works to ensure quality and accuracy. He emphasized the critical need to expand water testing across the city and to take immediate corrective steps to prevent any further leakages in the water supply network.
Outbreak Source and Response Measures
The outbreak has been primarily concentrated in Sectors 24, 26, 28, and the Adiwada area of Gandhinagar city. Investigations have confirmed that the cause is the mixing of drainage water with drinking water due to leaks in underground pipelines.
In response, the Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation has swung into action. Municipal Commissioner J N Vaghela informed the CM that 85 survey teams have been formed, which have conducted health surveillance of more than 1.58 lakh people. Repair work on identified pipeline leakages is being undertaken on a top-priority basis.
To disinfect the water supply, super chlorination has been carried out at all water sources. Furthermore, adequate quantities of chlorine tablets and Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) packets have been distributed among residents in the affected zones to prevent dehydration and further spread.
Gradual Decline in Cases, But Vigilance Continues
Officials reported a silver lining, noting a gradual decline in new typhoid cases, indicating that the containment measures are beginning to show effect. However, the situation remains under close watch.
Over 100 people, most of them children, affected by the water contamination have been admitted to the Gandhinagar Civil Hospital for treatment. The state health machinery is ensuring all necessary medical care is provided to the patients.
The directives from the Chief Minister's office underscore the administration's focus on addressing the root cause of the outbreak—the compromised water infrastructure—while simultaneously managing the public health crisis on the ground.
