What is happening in Foncegrive, a charming village very close to Lorsgey, north of Dijon? The Regional Health Agency asks the 195 residents to no longer drink tap water. Exactly a week ago, on December 10, state services detected the presence of Escherichia Coli bacteria in the drinking water network, as well as coliform bacteria. Elements that can cause stomach cramps and severe diarrhea, especially in fragile people.
Until further notice, residents must no longer consume the water that comes out of their sink. The town hall has set up a distribution of mineral water bottles. Jacqueline has lived in this small town forever, and it’s a surprise for her. “This is the first time that this has happened here. The town hall offers us two liters of mineral water per person per day, so we make do with what we have. I haven’t noticed any odor or particular taste in tap water, it must be said that I am already used to drinking mineral water And I don’t have any animals at home, so I can manage.”
We meet Axel a little further on. He has chosen to live here for a year and is not worried. “Yes, I have heard about this problem, but I don’t even know what time the town hall distributes the water bottles. I don’t feel in danger, I know that the quality of the water is very controlled. “
Boil water for five minutes before consuming it
No distribution notice on the town hall door, but the note from the Regional Health Agency is displayed on the municipal information board. It is indicated that you should consume bottled water for cooking or for hydration. “Otherwise, it is advisable to bring tap water to a rolling boil for five minutes in a container with a lid, and of course let it cool before use.” Tap water remains permitted for washing, washing or cleaning.
The Regional Health Agency is monitoring the situation. New analysis results should be known Thursday or Friday. To his knowledge the municipality of Foncegrive is the only one in its canton to be faced with this problem.and this situation is indeed unprecedented.
The mayor of Foncegrive refuses to speak to our microphone, and the SAUR which distributes this tap water remains unreachable. “The situation will not return to normal on its own” underlines the ARS. “To make these bacteria disappear, it will be necessary to add chlorine to the water treatment, at least for a while.”
Olivier Estran
Belgium
