Don Bosco Academy Provides De-fluoridated Drinking Water to Nine Villages in Nalgoda District

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This is the story of a land where excess fluoride has turned the ground water into a slow poison, crippling at least 10,000 people and leaving several thousands in constant misery. This is the story of Nalgonda, one of the poorest and most drought-prone districts of Andhra Pradesh in southern India. The seriousness of the problem can be measured by the fact that the groundwater has 10 to 12 parts per million (ppm) of fluoride in contrast to a maximum permitted level of just 1.5 ppm. In the dust-filled hamlets hardly 100 kilometers (60 miles) from the state capital Hyderabad there are many living examples of the havoc caused by fluoride.

People with paralyzing bone diseases, stooped backs, crooked hands and legs, deformed teeth, blindness and other handicaps are a common sight. The most shocking and sad image of this suffering is Venkatesh, the uncle of our student. At 18-years of age, when other youths are full of enthusiasm for life, Venkatesh looks to be hardly five-years-old, with a physique completely devastated by the effects of fluoride. He is so weak that he cannot walk and weighs barely 15 kilogrammes (less than 34 lbs). He is blind and mentally challenged. He cannot recognize his own name and he cannot even eat by himself. Dreadful fate' the reason for this the fluoride filled drinking water.

Witnessing these devastating living conditions in the district with regard to drinking water; the Salesians of Don Bosco have come forward to set up safe Drinking water plants in 9 villages of the District, this academic year 2012-2013. The works have already begun and 8 the mineral water plants have been inaugurated by His Lordship Most Rev. Govindu Joji, the Bishop of Nalgonda. Though this may be a drop in the ocean the Salesians of don Bosco Nalgonda headed by Fr Anand have enabled thirty two thousand people with safe drinking water and are also dreaming of doing the same to the district. Thanks to the Provincial Raminedi Balaraju and the Bosco Seva Kendra (province development office), Hyderabad for their timely help and a special thanks to His Lordship for the support and encouragement.

Br G. Naresh