Six wells turn black, flammable in Karnataka village; probe on

Sirci: Residents of Omkara Nagar in Dodnalli village of Sirsi taluk in Uttara Kannada district are facing an unusual and alarming water contamination problem, with water in around six wells reportedly turning black and catching fire when exposed to a flame.

Villagers said an oily layer had formed on the surface of the well water, which also emits a smell similar to petrol or diesel. In a disturbing demonstration, a piece of paper dipped in the water reportedly caught fire when a matchstick was applied. Residents said the problem persisted even after the wells were emptied, as oil-contaminated water continued to seep back in.

The development has raised serious concerns among families who depend on these wells for their daily water requirements. After noticing the contamination, residents alerted gram panchayat officials, who visited the locality and confirmed the presence of an oily substance on the water surface.

Water samples from the affected wells have been collected and sent to a laboratory for analysis. Preliminary findings have indicated that the water is not fit for drinking. In response, the gram panchayat has made arrangements to supply drinking water to the affected households through tankers.

A large power transmission grid located close to Omkara Nagar has come under scrutiny. There is suspicion that oil may have leaked from transformers at the facility, entered the soil and contaminated the groundwater. Officials and a team of experts have also inspected the power grid premises as part of the investigation.

However, the exact source of the contamination has not yet been established. Authorities are awaiting the detailed laboratory report to identify the substance found in the wells and determine how it entered the groundwater.

Meanwhile, residents remain worried about the safety of their water sources and the possible impact of the contamination on their health and surroundings.

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