Excess Chlorine in School Water Sends 21 Pollachi Students to Hospital
At least 21 students of a government middle school in Unjavelampatti near Pollachi in Coimbatore district were admitted to the Pollachi Government Hospital on Tuesday (August 18, 2026) after they complained of stomach pain and throat irritation. The students had consumed water from the school's drinking water tank, which officials later said contained excessive chlorine.
According to school authorities, the chlorine had been added to the 60-litre water tank as part of precautions against dengue, which is prevalent during the monsoon season. However, the water level in the tank was low at the time, leading to a higher concentration of chlorine than the safe limit for drinking water.
Parents were alerted by teachers soon after the first few students began reporting discomfort. Many rushed to the school and took the affected children to hospital. At the emergency department, initial treatment was provided before the students were shifted to the children's ward for observation.
Police and revenue officials visited the hospital on Tuesday evening and conducted an inquiry into the incident. Officials told reporters that the students were in stable condition and responding well to treatment. The school's drinking water tank has since been cleaned and refilled, and further safety measures have been initiated.
On Wednesday morning, Pollachi MP K. Eswarasamy visited the hospital and enquired about the health of the affected students. He interacted with the students and their parents and assured them of all necessary support. Hospital officials confirmed that all 21 students were out of danger and were expected to be discharged soon.
Chlorine is commonly used to disinfect water and prevent vector-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria. The World Health Organization recommends a residual chlorine level of 0.5 parts per million in drinking water. However, when added in excess, chlorine can cause irritation of the throat and stomach, nausea, and other health issues, especially in children.
The incident highlights the need for proper training and awareness among school staff regarding the safe handling of chemicals used for hygiene and disease prevention. Officials from the school education department have been asked to review the procedures at all schools in the area to avoid similar occurrences.
The district administration has also advised schools to ensure that water tanks are filled before adding chlorine and to use standard measuring instructions provided by the health department. Further, periodic inspections are planned to verify compliance with safety guidelines.
The prompt response of teachers and the quick action by parents prevented a more serious outcome. Health experts point out that such incidents, while unfortunate, underscore the importance of safeguarding water quality in educational institutions, where children are particularly vulnerable.
