Indore, a city celebrated for its cleanliness, is grappling with a severe public health crisis following widespread water contamination. At least eight people have died, and over a hundred have fallen ill after consuming contaminated water supplied through the municipal pipeline in the Bhagirathpura area. The incident has triggered a swift response from the Madhya Pradesh government, including disciplinary action against officials and a probe into the matter.
The crisis unfolded after residents reported that the water supplied on December 25th had an unusual smell. Soon after, people began experiencing symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration, leading to mass hospitalizations. As of December 30, 2025, 111 patients were admitted to various government and private hospitals, with over 1,000 individuals treated for milder symptoms. Health officials surveyed over 12,000 people in 2,700 households in Bhagirathpura, providing primary treatment and medication to those exhibiting symptoms.
While authorities have confirmed eight deaths directly linked to the contamination, local residents claim the actual number may be higher. The deceased include Nandlal Pal, 70, Urmila Yadav, 60, and Tara Kori, 65, who succumbed to diarrhea. The state government has announced financial assistance of ₹2 lakh for the families of the deceased and will bear the medical expenses of those affected.
Preliminary investigations have revealed a leakage in the main water supply pipeline in Bhagirathpura, situated beneath a toilet. This breach is suspected to be the primary source of contamination. Municipal Commissioner Dilip Kumar Yadav confirmed the leakage and the possibility of resulting water contamination.
In response to the crisis, the state government has taken immediate action. A zonal officer of the municipal corporation and an assistant engineer in Bhagirathpura have been suspended, and the services of an in-charge sub-engineer have been terminated. A three-member committee, headed by an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, has been formed to investigate the incident. Local MLA and Cabinet Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya visited hospitals to meet with affected families, assuring them of free treatment.
The incident has sparked political reactions, with Madhya Pradesh Congress president Jitu Patwari holding the Indore Municipal Corporation responsible and demanding strict action against those accountable. Critics argue that the administration is concealing the actual death toll to downplay the severity of the situation.
Indore relies on the Narmada River for its water supply, with water transported from Jalud in the neighboring Khargone district via a municipal pipeline. The contamination incident has cast a shadow over Indore's reputation as India's cleanest city, raising concerns about the maintenance and safety of its water infrastructure. Further investigations are underway to determine the full extent of the contamination and prevent future occurrences.
