A water contamination crisis in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, has resulted in at least ten deaths and sickened over 2,000 residents. The incident occurred in the Bhagirathpura area, where residents reported foul-smelling, discolored water in their municipal supply since late December 2025. The contaminated water, reportedly mixed with sewage due to a rupture in an old Narmada water pipeline, led to a severe outbreak of gastroenteritis. Among the deceased are six women and a six-month-old infant.
In response to public outrage, the Madhya Pradesh government has taken swift action, removing senior municipal officials from their posts. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav ordered the dismissal of an in-charge sub-engineer from the Public Health Engineering Department. Additionally, a zonal officer and an assistant engineer from the Indore Municipal Corporation have been suspended. CM Yadav described the incident as a result of "grave negligence".
The state government has also initiated a high-level probe into the incident. A three-member committee headed by an IAS officer will investigate the cause of the contamination and delays in implementing a project to replace the aging water pipeline. The Madhya Pradesh High Court has also sought a detailed status report on the situation.
Medical response to the crisis has been extensive. Over 200 residents have been hospitalized with severe gastroenteritis, with many requiring intensive care. Health officials have surveyed nearly 8,000 houses, providing first aid to over 2,456 suspected patients. The state government has assured free treatment for all affected and has promised to reimburse any medical expenses incurred.
The incident has sparked concerns about the maintenance of water infrastructure in Indore, which has been recognized as India's "Cleanest City" multiple times. Investigations revealed that the pipeline rupture occurred beneath a toilet at a police check post, allowing sewage to seep into the drinking water supply. Despite residents' complaints about the water quality, authorities allegedly failed to act promptly.
The National Human Rights Commission has taken cognizance of the matter and has requested a detailed report from the state government. Chief Minister Yadav has announced an ex-gratia compensation of two lakh rupees for the families of the deceased. He has also directed officials to conduct a comprehensive audit of water pipelines across the state to prevent similar incidents in the future.
