As per the latest updates on the water contamination crisis in Indore, health authorities have confirmed that 20 new diarrhoea cases were detected during ongoing screening, taking the number of patients currently hospitalised to 142. Of these, 11 patients are undergoing treatment in intensive care units. The outbreak, centred in the Bhagirathpura area, has now been declared an epidemic by the district administration, prompting intensified surveillance and emergency response.
Medical teams have screened over 9,400 residents across more than 2,300 households to identify fresh cases and prevent further spread. Officials said most patients reported symptoms such as acute diarrhoea, vomiting, dehydration and fever after consuming contaminated drinking water supplied to the area.
Since the outbreak began, a total of 398 people have been admitted to hospitals in Indore. While 256 patients have recovered and been discharged, several others remain under observation. Authorities have officially confirmed six deaths linked to the outbreak, though there are conflicting claims from local leaders and residents, with some alleging a higher toll, including the death of an infant.
The Indore Municipal Corporation has acknowledged contamination in the water supply and has taken steps to contain the situation. Water supply from suspected pipelines has been stopped in affected localities, and chlorination and flushing of pipelines are being carried out. Safe drinking water is being supplied through tankers, and residents have been advised to boil water before use and maintain strict hygiene.
To determine the exact cause of the contamination, a specialised team associated with the Indian Council of Medical Research has been deployed. The team is examining water samples and checking for possible pipeline leakages or bacterial contamination that may have triggered the outbreak.
The crisis has sparked public anger and political protests, with opposition parties accusing the civic administration of negligence and delayed action despite complaints about poor water quality in the area over the past few months. Demonstrations have been held demanding accountability and immediate corrective measures.
The outbreak has come as a major concern for Indore, a city often praised for its cleanliness and civic management. Health officials said active surveillance will continue in the coming days and urged residents to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear, stressing that early treatment can significantly reduce the risk of serious complications.
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