As the monsoon season unfolds, Ahmedabad is witnessing a significant rise in cholera cases. According to the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), the city has reported 129 cases by July 6, a three-year high compared to 35 cases in 2022 and 95 in 2023, reflecting a 36% increase over the previous year.

The outbreak has predominantly affected the South Zone and East Zone, accounting for 77.5% of the cases. Amraiwadi is the worst-hit locality with 22 cases, followed by Lambha with 17, Indrapuri with 13, and Vatva and Ramol with 11 each. In the western areas, Ranip and Navrangpura have reported two cases each.

Health officials attribute the cholera outbreak to contaminated water or food, with water contamination posing a larger threat due to potential pipeline breakages. Illegal water connections and the use of borewells or shallow wells have exacerbated the situation. A senior official noted, “It is quite possible that the break in pipeline may have led to mixing of sewage water.”

The AMC has been proactive in identifying and repairing pipeline breakages, addressing around 60 instances in the past six months. Officials emphasized the importance of water purification methods to prevent waterborne diseases.

The cholera outbreak extends beyond Ahmedabad, affecting eight districts across Gujarat, including Gandhinagar and Anand. A recent high-level review meeting was held to assess the situation and develop region-specific strategies to mitigate further spread.

As the city grapples with this health crisis, the AMC continues to urge residents to use safe water sources and adopt preventive measures to curb the outbreak.