Spread of amoebic meningoencephalitis: Concerns about water cannons too

KOZHIKODE: Concerns over the use of water cannons by the police in the wake of the spread of amoebic meningoencephalitis. Infection may occur through the nose when the cannons spray water to disperse the protesters.

The water cannons are said to draw water from stagnant water bodies and wells. Water is drawn from water sources in police camps and water authority reservoirs also. Many of the water authority tanks are not properly cleaned. The health department is taking water samples for testing from water bodies and wells in areas where amoebic meningoencephalitis is reported. The government has directed that swimming pools, ordinary ponds and wells be cleaned.

There is a demand that the police be given guidelines to ensure the purity of the water in the water cannons. Youth Congress Ernakulam District Vice President Salman Olickal has filed a complaint with the DGP and the Human Rights Commission in this regard. It will be considered in the next sitting.

Threat pointed out by health experts too

Health experts also point out that there is a possibility of infection through the use of water cannons. Water may enter through the nose and mouth. The Health Department has advised that care should be taken not to let water enter the nose, even when bathing in untreated water.

Water cannon Varun

Storage capacity: Up to 12,000 liters

Water spray distance: Up to 50 meters

Spray rate per minute: 2,000 to 10,000 liters

"The water in the water cannon is yellow or earthy in colour. The purity of the water should be ensured."

- Salman Olickal,

Youth Congress