Contaminated Water Crisis in Indore Raises Health Concerns

Indore, celebrated as India's cleanest city, is currently facing a dire health crisis due to contaminated drinking water, resulting in a significant outbreak of diarrhea and vomiting. With at least 14 fatalities and over 1,400 affected individuals, the situation has prompted urgent investigations into the city's water supply system. Officials have confirmed that a leak in the main pipeline in the Bhagirathpura area is to blame. The Chief Minister has declared the situation an 'emergency-like' crisis, emphasizing the need for immediate action to prevent further outbreaks. As health officials conduct thorough inspections and provide treatment to affected residents, the government plans to implement new protocols to safeguard public health in the future.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 2, 2026, 12:33 IST

Contamination Crisis in Indore

Indore, recognized as India's cleanest city for eight consecutive years, is currently facing a severe public health crisis due to contaminated drinking water. The outbreak of diarrhea and vomiting in the Bhagirathpura area has raised significant concerns regarding water safety and civic oversight. According to officials from the Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC), a leak was discovered in the main water supply pipeline serving Bhagirathpura.

Health Risks Confirmed by Laboratory Tests

Authorities confirmed that laboratory tests indicated the diarrhea outbreak, which has claimed at least 14 lives and affected over 1,400 individuals, was caused by tainted drinking water. These findings have exposed serious vulnerabilities in the water supply system in certain parts of Madhya Pradesh's commercial capital, despite Indore's reputation for cleanliness.

Investigation into Water Supply Contamination

Dr. Madhav Prasad Hasani, the Chief Medical and Health Officer of Indore, informed reporters that a laboratory report from a local medical college confirmed contamination in the drinking water due to a leak in a pipeline in Bhagirathpura, where the outbreak originated. However, he did not disclose detailed results from the report.

Leakage Found Near Police Station

Officials reported that a leak was identified in the main drinking water supply pipeline near a police station in Bhagirathpura, which had a toilet constructed above it. This leak has led to the contamination of the water supplied to the area.

Thorough Inspection Underway

Sanjay Dubey, the Additional Chief Secretary, stated that officials are conducting a thorough inspection of the entire drinking water pipeline in Bhagirathpura to identify any additional leaks. Following the inspection, clean water was supplied to homes on Thursday, but residents were advised to boil the water before consumption. Water samples have also been collected and sent for testing.

Government's Response to Prevent Future Outbreaks

Dubey mentioned that the state government plans to issue a standard operating procedure to prevent such outbreaks in the future. He visited Bhagirathpura to assess the situation under the directives of Chief Minister Mohan Yadav.

Health Department's Ongoing Efforts

A health department official reported that during a survey of 1,714 homes in Bhagirathpura on Thursday, 8,571 individuals were examined. Among them, 338 people exhibiting mild symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea received primary treatment at home.

Hospital Admissions and Patient Status

In the past eight days, 272 patients have been admitted to local hospitals, with 71 already discharged. Currently, 201 patients remain hospitalized, including 32 in intensive care.

Chief Minister Declares Emergency-Like Situation

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav visited hospitals and chaired a high-level review meeting, labeling the outbreak as an 'emergency-like situation.' He emphasized that coordinated efforts from the administration have enabled timely treatment for many patients. The government reported that thousands of residents have been screened, revealing several suspected cases, with most hospitalized patients in stable condition. Yadav stated, 'The state government will not tolerate negligence. Strict action will be taken against those responsible,' and instructed officials to inspect drinking water and sewer lines throughout the city to prevent future incidents.