Medical professionals in Ranchi, serving across both government and private hospitals, are raising an alarm over a significant increase in patients suffering from skin infections, hair loss, and gastrointestinal problems. They attribute this worrying trend directly to prolonged exposure to contaminated or impure water, casting serious doubts on the safety of the drinking and domestic water supply in Jharkhand's capital.
Doctors Cite Alarming Patient Statistics
Physicians report that a substantial number of their daily consultations now involve complaints of rashes, persistent itching, unexplained hair fall, stomach infections, and diarrhoea. Dr. Ritu Rashi, a practicing physician in Ranchi, reveals that nearly 10-20% of her patients each day report ailments linked directly to consuming contaminated water. She notes that these cases see a predictable spike during the monsoon season.
"Several factors contribute to the frequent outbreak of water-borne diseases," explained Dr. Rashi. "A primary cause is the consumption of tainted water, either at home or outside. In many city areas, household water pipelines run alongside or through garbage-filled drains. If these pipes leak, sewage can infiltrate the supply, introducing dangerous bacteria and pathogens that make people sick."
The doctor further highlighted that poor hygiene practices, sometimes even among middle-income groups, exacerbate the spread of illnesses like diarrhoea, typhoid, jaundice, and cholera. She specifically warned working professionals who frequently drink water from unsafe external sources, advising everyone to boil water for 10-20 minutes as a crucial preventive measure.
Residents Share Their Harrowing Experiences
The human impact of this crisis is stark. Shubham Kumar, a working professional living in a rented accommodation, shared his ordeal: "In October last year, severe diarrhoea and vomiting led to my hospitalisation. When doctors suspected impure water was the culprit, I immediately stopped drinking tap water and switched to packaged water. Thankfully, I haven't fallen ill since." His story underscores the direct link residents are making between their health and the city's water.
Hair and Skin Problems Linked to Water Quality
Beyond stomach ailments, the use of impure water is now being identified as a key factor behind a rise in dermatological issues. Dr. Prabhat Kumar, head of the dermatology department at Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), stated that hair fall among young adults is a common complaint at the outpatient department.
Dr. Kumar clarified that while water quality isn't the only reason for hair loss, it is a major contributing factor. He observed that this condition is particularly prevalent among young adults who have recently moved to Ranchi from other parts of the state or country.
"It is suspected that a high concentration of iron in Ranchi's groundwater is a significant factor leading to this situation," Dr. Kumar added. He also noted that other elements like diet, stress from academic pressure, and various lifestyle factors are associated with the problem, but the water's role is undeniable.
The collective testimony from doctors and patients paints a concerning picture of public health in Ranchi, urging immediate attention to the city's water infrastructure and supply quality.
