Indore: A major public health emergency has unfolded in Indore after contaminated drinking water claimed at least seven lives and left hundreds of residents ill in the Bhagirathpura locality. The incident has sent shockwaves through the city, often cited as India’s cleanest, raising serious questions about civic oversight and infrastructure neglect.
The crisis began unfolding around December 24, when residents started reporting a sudden surge in cases of vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach infections. Over the following days, the number of patients rose sharply. While more than 40 people are currently under medical observation, officials confirmed that over 1,000 residents have already received treatment at government and private healthcare facilities.
Indore Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargav stated that the death toll has reached seven, although initial official records listed fewer fatalities. He acknowledged that the actual situation on the ground was more severe than early estimates suggested.
Government steps in, officials face action
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav ordered immediate disciplinary action after preliminary findings pointed to negligence. A zonal officer and an assistant engineer of the municipal corporation have been suspended, while a sub-engineer has been dismissed from service. A three-member probe panel has been constituted to conduct a detailed investigation into the lapse.
The state government has also announced financial assistance of ₹2 lakh each for the families of those who lost their lives in the incident.
Warnings ignored, residents allege
Local residents alleged that complaints about foul-smelling and muddy tap water were repeatedly raised for days, but authorities failed to respond in time. Some residents claimed the issue had persisted intermittently for months, with no permanent corrective measures taken, leaving vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly severely affected.
Source of contamination identified
Initial technical assessments revealed that the main drinking water pipeline in Bhagirathpura runs beneath a public toilet. Due to leaks and damaged sections, sewage reportedly seeped into the Narmada water supply line. Officials also discovered multiple broken distribution pipes that allowed polluted water to enter household connections.
It also emerged that a ₹2.5 crore proposal to replace the ageing pipeline had been approved several months ago but was never implemented.
Healthcare system under pressure
Sanjeevani clinics and nearby hospitals have witnessed a continuous influx of patients suffering from waterborne illnesses. Many families reported that several members fell ill simultaneously, leading to mounting medical expenses. Anganwadi workers deployed for door-to-door surveys said they too were affected, with some personally escorting dozens of patients to hospitals.
