From saviour to killer: How bacteria in drinking water turned deadly in Indore | Details
Drinking water in Indore's Bhagirathipura area turned deadly after laboratory tests confirmed the presence of harmful bacteria, including faecal coliform, E. coli, and Klebsiella. A leak in a main water pipeline is believed to have caused the contamination, triggering a severe diarrhoea outbreak that claimed several lives and left thousands affected, prompting intervention by the NHRC and the state government.
New Delhi: The latest developments in the Indore water contamination case have revealed the presence of harmful bacteria in the area’s drinking water. Samples submitted for testing were found to contain faecal coliform, E. coli, and Klebsiella. According to reports, a leak in a main drinking water pipeline led to the contamination. Laboratory tests confirmed that residents suffered a diarrhoea outbreak, which proved fatal for many. At least fifteen people have lost their lives, while over 150 are currently receiving treatment in hospitals. The incident occurred in Indore’s Bhagirathipura area.
So far, 80 samples have been tested. While some reports have been received, others are still awaited. Owing to the deteriorating conditions of residents in Bhagirathipura, the Madhya Pradesh government has decided to take appropriate action regarding the contamination. The situation worsened after locals questioned the government’s inaction despite repeated complaints.
Matter has deteriorated
Although the problem has persisted for two to three weeks, the first complaint was raised on December 25. Reports state that residents initially complained of an unusual smell in the water.
According to reports, several people continue to fall ill in the Bhagirathipura area, with the number of cases increasing each day. Around 2,456 people have reported symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea, and 162 of them have been admitted to hospital.
NHRC takes suo motu cognisance
The issue drew wider attention after the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) took suo motu cognisance of the drinking water contamination. The NHRC issued a notice to the Madhya Pradesh government, seeking a detailed report within two weeks.
The rights body also sought an explanation for the authorities’ inaction despite receiving multiple complaints. Meanwhile, the Indore Bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court has directed the state government to submit a detailed report on the incident at the earliest.
In response, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced Rs 2 lakh in financial assistance for the families of those who died and assured free treatment for all affected patients.