Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu
The Andhra Pradesh government has ordered increased monitoring of urban water systems following sporadic gastroenteritis and diarrhea cases reported in some urban local bodies (ULBs).
During the high-level review, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed serious concern and directed all departments to act urgently and responsibly. He stressed that safe drinking water is a fundamental public service commitment and warned that any misconduct affecting public health would be taken seriously.
The Department of Urban Administration and Urban Development, Public Health Engineering, Department of Health and District Administration were tasked with close coordination and intensified field inspections.
On the Chief Minister’s instructions, MA and UD Minister P. Narayana convened a review meeting with senior officials and ordered a state-wide special drive for drinking water safety, repairing pipeline leaks, protecting vulnerable pipeline sections, strengthening chlorination systems, desilting sewage and intensifying anti-mosquito measures.
“zero tolerance”
Chief Secretary S Suresh Kumar issued strict instructions saying there would be “absolute zero tolerance” for negligence. The Municipal Commissioners were personally responsible for ensuring that the supplied water conformed to BIS standards. He ordered that dangerous pipe crossings be repaired immediately and ordered scientific monitoring of water quality, including regular sampling and testing for residual chlorine.
In cases of suspected contamination, it is necessary to immediately stop the supply and provide replacement safe water. Weekly compliance reports were mandated, with warnings of severe disciplinary action for any evidence of negligence.
Published – 26 Feb 2026 21:51 IST
