In India’s cleanest city, Indore, at least 7 people have died and many have fallen ill after consuming contaminated drinking water. The incident occurred in Bhagirathpura area of the city. Chief Minister (CM) Mohan Yadav has directed action against three municipal officials, suspending a zonal officer and an assistant engineer. Cases of vomiting and diarrhoea began rising sharply from December 24, said the officials. Currently, over 40 people are reported to be ill while over 1000 have received treatment so far. The situation escalated rapidly after residents continued to receive foul-smelling and dirty water through household taps. CM Yadav has announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh each for the families of the deceased.
Complaints ignored
Residents said that they had complained about this issue earlier, but no action was taken in time. The problem has persisted for nearly six months, resulting in children and elderly residents falling seriously ill, said a local resident.
Cause of contamination
As per preliminary reports by the Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC), due to a leakage in the main line, sewage water reportedly entered the Narmada drinking water pipeline, which passes beneath the public toilet. The toilet has been discontinued and repaired now.
Anganwadi health workers: the first responders
More than a dozen of Anganwadi workers have been deployed to conduct door-to-door surveys to identify affected residents and provide them timely treatment.
Heavy rush of patients at clinics
A large number of people rushed towards clinics near the Bhagirathpura area after the mishap occurred. Many people are still arriving at clinics and hospitals with symptoms of waterborne illness.
