Twenty-one students at a government middle school in Unjavelampatti near Pollachi, Coimbatore district, fell ill Tuesday afternoon after drinking water from the school’s storage tank. They complained of stomach pain and throat irritation shortly after consumption. The issue arose after chlorine was added to the water tank for disinfection. Due to the low water level, the chlorine became more concentrated than intended, causing irritation and discomfort among the students.
Teachers alerted parents when students began showing symptoms. Parents then took the affected children to Pollachi Government Hospital, where they received initial treatment in the emergency department and were admitted to the children’s ward for observation. Following the incident, police and revenue officials visited the hospital and conducted an inquiry. The case has highlighted the need for proper chlorine measurement during water disinfection, especially when tank water levels are low.
Authorities have been informed and are expected to take measures to ensure the school’s drinking water is safe for students.
