MP Pollution Board Probe Finds Toxic Water Across Indore
Indore is facing a severe public health crisis following the detection of contaminated water sources across the city. A recent probe by the Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board, along with separate investigations, has revealed alarming levels of contamination, leading to illness, hospitalizations, and even fatalities.
The crisis unfolded when residents of Bhagirathpura, Indore, reported an unusual taste and odor in their municipal drinking water around December 25, 2025. Soon after, a surge of people began experiencing symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea, requiring immediate medical attention. As of January 1, 2026, at least four deaths have been directly linked to the consumption of contaminated water, with over 149 individuals hospitalized. Other reports indicate the death toll may be as high as nine or even fourteen, with some deaths potentially linked to co-morbidities.
Initial findings from the inquiry point to the presence of bacteria "generally found in sewer water" in the drinking water samples. Officials suspect that a sewage pipeline may have been leeching into a drinking water line, causing the contamination. The exact pathogens are still being identified as culture reports and stool tests are awaited.
The state administration has initiated emergency measures to address the crisis. Indore District Magistrate Shivam Verma stated that treatment is being provided to all affected individuals, following the Chief Minister's directives. Survey teams are conducting door-to-door checks to identify more affected persons and prevent further spread of illness, with nearly 2,700 houses surveyed as of Tuesday, December 30, 2025. ANM and ASHA workers are also distributing ORS packets to residents as a preventive measure.
In response to the incident, the state government has taken disciplinary action against responsible officials. The Assistant Engineer (AE) and Zonal Officer (ZO) responsible for water supply have been suspended, and the concerned sub-engineer has been relieved of their duties. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident and promised strict action against any negligence, especially in areas with water supply complaints. He has also announced financial assistance of Rs 2 lakh each to the families of the deceased and free treatment for all affected people.
The incident has triggered political reactions, with the Madhya Pradesh Congress president Jitu Patwari holding the Indore Municipal Corporation responsible and demanding strict action against those accountable. He alleged a serious failure in civic administration and called for a criminal investigation, suggesting the possible presence of a toxic substance in the drinking water supply.
Beyond this recent crisis, a Union government assessment under the Jal Jeevan Mission, conducted between September and October 2024, revealed that only 33% of surveyed rural households in the Indore district received potable water, which officials described as below acceptable levels. Furthermore, a Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board's ground-level investigation in 2016-17 found groundwater contamination across Indore. These findings highlight a long-standing concern regarding water quality and infrastructure in the region.
