Sun Sep 14 17:39:59 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summarized news article based on the provided text:

**Headline: Drinking Water Contamination Sparks Protests, Health Concerns in Puducherry**

**Puducherry, September 14, 2025** – Widespread reports of Acute Gastroenteritis (AGE) cases across Puducherry, particularly in low-income areas like Kosapalayam, Mudaliarpet, Odiansalai, and Lawspet, have triggered public outcry and political action. Residents report symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain after consuming piped water, raising concerns about water contamination.

Initial testing of water samples from Mudaliarpet and Odiansalai has revealed “unsatisfactory quality,” suggesting potential contamination within the distribution system. This finding has fueled suspicion of sewage mixing with drinking water, a recurring issue for many residents.

The opposition DMK party and independent legislators staged protests in front of the Public Works Department earlier this week. Former Chief Minister V. Narayanasamy has criticized the current AINRC-BJP government for failing to provide safe drinking water.

The government has responded by ordering the Public Works Department to conduct a field survey to identify overlapping sewer lines and water pipes. Public Works Minister K. Lakshminarayanan stated that teams are working to pinpoint the source of contamination and implement corrective measures. In the interim, the government has begun distributing canned water in affected areas.

The Department of Community Medicine has recommended increased chlorination of water sources and regular testing at various points within Primary Health Centers. They have also advised residents to boil or filter their water. The department has further stressed the need for a dedicated helpline to report AGE cases and suspected water contamination. The investigation is ongoing.

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