Indore: A major public health crisis has unfolded in Indore after sewage was found to have mixed with the city’s drinking water supply, leading to multiple deaths and widespread illness.
Health authorities confirmed that contaminated water supplied to parts of the Bhagirathpura area carried dangerous bacteria linked to sewage. Several people lost their lives after suffering severe diarrhoea and dehydration, while hundreds were admitted to hospitals for treatment.
Thousands of residents have also been screened for symptoms as a precaution.
Laboratory tests on water samples detected harmful bacteria commonly found in sewage, including organisms that cause acute stomach infections and waterborne diseases. Doctors said many patients reported vomiting, fever and severe weakness, with children and elderly residents among the worst affected.
Officials said the contamination occurred after sewage leaked into a municipal drinking water pipeline. Preliminary investigations pointed to faulty construction and poor maintenance near a public toilet facility, where waste is believed to have seeped into the water line supplying nearby homes.
Emergency medical teams were deployed in the affected neighbourhoods, and hospitals were asked to keep additional beds ready. Residents were advised not to drink tap water and to boil water before use. Tankers were arranged to supply safe drinking water, and disinfection work was carried out across the locality.
The Madhya Pradesh government ordered a detailed inquiry into the incident. Several municipal officials were suspended for alleged negligence, and compensation was announced for the families of those who died. Authorities also promised strict action against those responsible once the investigation is complete.
The incident has raised serious questions about urban water safety and infrastructure monitoring in a city often praised for cleanliness. Public health experts warned that ageing pipelines and poor sewage management could lead to similar outbreaks if urgent corrective measures are not taken.
Officials said the situation is now under control, but medical surveillance will continue in the coming days to prevent further loss of life and ensure safe water supply to all residents.