The issue of drinking water contamination has reemerged in parts of Indore district, with 22 individuals falling ill in Mhow tehsil after consuming suspected contaminated water. The incident, occurring in Chander Marg in Patti Bazaar, has resulted in nine hospitalizations, while others are being treated at home under medical supervision. Symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and in some cases, jaundice have caused public concern following a recent deadly outbreak in Bhagirathpura.
Late Thursday night, Indore District Collector Shivam Verma promptly visited the affected area upon receiving reports. He interacted with patients and their families, inspected the locality, and directed doctors and health officials to ensure immediate and proper treatment for all affected individuals, stressing zero tolerance for negligence. Health teams, deployed on site since early Friday, are actively investigating the contamination source, conducting water sample tests, and taking measures to prevent further spread.
The official X handle of District Collector Indore has shared photos of the Collector and the patients. Regional MLA Usha Thakur also visited the hospital to meet the victims and inquire about their condition, pledging support from local authorities. This recent outbreak follows a severe waterborne disease crisis in Bhagirathpura a few weeks ago, where contaminated supply, linked to bacterial presence including E coli, led to widespread vomiting and diarrhea. A status report by the Madhya Pradesh government to the Indore bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court on January 15 reported seven fatalities, including a five-month-old infant.
The High Court has raised concerns about the contamination severity, instructed the preservation of records, and requested updated reports amidst ongoing PILs. Locals in Mhow have alleged longstanding issues like leaking pipelines passing through dirty drains, allowing sewage to mix with drinking water, resulting in a muddy and foul-smelling water supply for weeks. Children and the elderly have been particularly at risk, with some families reporting multiple affected members.
