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16 January 2026|The Indian Express
2 min read
Social IssuesEnvironment & EcologyNEWS

Contaminated Water Sickens Over 70 in Greater Noida's Alpha 2

Contaminated water in Greater Noida's Alpha 2 sector leads to over 70 people falling ill.

Background Context

The provision of clean and safe drinking water has been a long-standing challenge in India, deeply intertwined with its history and socio-economic development. Ancient civilizations like the Indus Valley Civilization demonstrated sophisticated water management systems, including wells and drainage. However, over centuries, rapid urbanization, industrialization, and population growth have strained water resources and infrastructure. The British colonial era saw the introduction of piped water systems in some urban centers, but these were limited in scope. Post-independence, various government initiatives, such as the National Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP) and the Jal Jeevan Mission, have aimed to improve water access and quality. Despite these efforts, contamination due to industrial effluents, agricultural runoff, and inadequate sewage treatment remains a persistent problem, particularly in rapidly growing urban areas like Greater Noida.

Over 70 people in Greater Noida's Alpha 2 sector have fallen ill due to contaminated water supply. Residents reported symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. The health department has initiated medical camps and is investigating the source of contamination. This incident highlights the challenges in maintaining clean water supply in urban areas and the potential health risks associated with water contamination.

Key Facts

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Location: Greater Noida, Alpha 2 sector

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Affected: Over 70 people

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Cause: Contaminated water supply

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Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea

Latest Developments

In recent years, there has been increased focus on water quality monitoring and regulation. The establishment of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has provided a platform for addressing environmental concerns, including water pollution. The Jal Jeevan Mission (launched in 2019) aims to provide piped water supply to all rural households by 2024, with a strong emphasis on water quality testing and surveillance. Furthermore, advancements in water treatment technologies, such as membrane filtration and UV disinfection, are being explored to improve water quality. The future outlook involves greater integration of technology, community participation, and stricter enforcement of environmental regulations to ensure sustainable and safe water supply. The ongoing Namami Gange project also indirectly contributes to improved water quality in the Ganga basin, which affects water availability in the surrounding regions.

3 Key Concepts to Understand

This article covers important concepts like Right to Clean Water, Public Health and 1 more. Understanding these will help you answer exam questions better.

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