Has NGT Taken Action on Reports Linking Well Water to Brain-Eating Amoeba Cases?
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Synopsis
The NGT's swift action following alarming reports about well water as a possible source of brain-eating amoeba in Kozhikode highlights the urgent need for public health vigilance and environmental accountability. As the investigation unfolds, the health of affected individuals remains a priority.
Key Takeaways
- NGT has initiated proceedings on brain-eating amoeba concerns.
- Well water may be a source of PAM infections in Kozhikode.
- Health officials found the amoeba in local well water.
- Three individuals are currently receiving treatment.
- Authorities need to investigate environmental violations.
New Delhi, Sep 5 (NationPress) The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has initiated suo motu proceedings based on a media report indicating that well water may be a possible source of brain-eating amoeba incidents in Kerala’s Kozhikode district.
Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), a rare and lethal brain infection, is attributed to Naegleria fowleri, widely referred to as the brain-eating amoeba.
A bench chaired by Justice Prakash Shrivastava registered the original application suo moto (on its own initiative) following a news article titled ‘Well water could be source of infection for PAM cases: officials’.
In reference to the news article, the bench, which includes expert members Dr A. Senthil Vel, Sudhir Kumar Chaturvedi, and Dr Sujit Kumar Bajpayee, acknowledged that three individuals, including a critically ill three-month-old infant and an 11-year-old girl, are receiving treatment for the infection. The report also noted that a nine-year-old child had previously died from the disease, while two of her siblings are currently under medical observation for fever-like symptoms.
According to health officials, the presence of the brain-eating amoeba was detected in the well water of the three-month-old’s residence. This finding has raised concerns that well water, alongside pond water, might play a substantial role in the transmission of the infection.
Authorities suspect that the amoebic organisms may have entered the child’s system during bathing.
The green tribunal indicated that this situation may reflect possible violations of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.
The NGT has named the Kerala State Pollution Control Board, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Directorate of Health Services, Kerala, and the District Collector, Kozhikode as respondents and instructed them to submit their responses via affidavit before the Southern Zonal Bench in Chennai.
The order noted, “Let notice be issued to the respondents… If any respondent files a reply directly without going through their advocate, that respondent will be virtually present to assist the Tribunal.” The NGT’s Southern Zonal Bench in Chennai is scheduled to hear the case next on October 9.
Point of View
It is crucial to understand that the NGT's involvement underscores the pressing need for enhanced environmental protection and public health measures. This situation not only highlights the dangers associated with contaminated water sources but also emphasizes the responsibility of authorities to safeguard communities. The nation must remain vigilant and informed as this case develops.
NationPress
05/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the brain-eating amoeba?
The brain-eating amoeba, scientifically known as Naegleria fowleri, is a rare but deadly organism that can cause Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), an aggressive brain infection.
How is the brain-eating amoeba contracted?
Infection typically occurs when contaminated water enters the body through the nose during activities such as swimming or bathing in warm freshwater sources.
What actions has the NGT taken in this case?
The NGT has registered a suo motu application and directed relevant authorities to provide responses regarding potential violations of environmental laws.
What are the symptoms of Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis?
Symptoms may include headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, and a stiff neck, progressing rapidly to seizures and coma.
What should people do to protect themselves from this infection?
Avoiding warm freshwater bodies, using clean water for bathing, and ensuring proper sanitation can reduce the risk of infection.
