Indore is grappling with a severe public health crisis following a diarrhoea outbreak in the Bhagirathpura area, with Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargava stating he has received reports of 10 fatalities linked to contaminated drinking water. The situation remains tense as local residents claim the death toll is even higher, at 14, including a six-month-old infant, though the health department has officially verified four deaths so far.
Source of Contamination and Official Response
The root cause of the outbreak has been traced to a leak in the main water supply pipeline. Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) Dr. Madhav Prasad Hasani confirmed that laboratory tests by a city-based medical college detected contamination in the drinking water. Officials revealed the leak was located near a police outpost, beneath a toilet, which led to sewage mixing with the potable water supply.
Despite the confirmation, detailed findings from the lab report have not been fully disclosed by the CMHO or administrative officials. District Collector Shivam Verma acknowledged the contamination but stated that the specific bacteria responsible is yet to be formally identified.
Scale of the Health Emergency
The outbreak has caused widespread illness over the past nine days. Health department data indicates that more than 1,400 residents have fallen ill with symptoms of vomiting and diarrhoea. In a significant medical response:
- 272 patients were admitted to hospitals.
- 71 have been discharged after treatment.
- 32 patients remain in intensive care units, highlighting the severity of the cases.
Health teams conducted extensive door-to-door surveys, covering 1,714 households and examining 8,571 people. Of those surveyed, 338 residents with mild symptoms received treatment at home.
Discrepancy in Death Toll and Ongoing Concerns
A significant point of contention remains the actual number of deaths. While the health department's official count stands at four, Mayor Bhargava informed PTI about reports of 10 deaths. Bhagirathpura residents, however, insist the toll has reached 14, a figure the health department is still working to verify.
When questioned about the potential spread of cholera in the area, based on preliminary water tests, Mayor Bhargava deferred to the health department for specifics. The lack of clear, consolidated information from authorities has added to the community's anxiety.
The crisis in Bhagirathpura underscores critical vulnerabilities in urban water supply infrastructure and the dire consequences of its failure. As health officials continue their investigation and treatment efforts, residents await a permanent solution to ensure the safety of their drinking water and prevent future tragedies.
