Conflicting reports regarding the number of fatalities from a contaminated water crisis in Indore have created confusion, with local residents, the Chief Minister, and the city Mayor providing different figures. The outbreak, linked to a leaking pipeline, has affected hundreds in the Bhagirathpura area.
Confusion Over the Death Toll
On Thursday, a clear picture of the human cost of the water contamination in Indore remained elusive. While residents of the affected Bhagirathpura area steadfastly claimed that 13 people, including a six-month-old infant, had lost their lives, official figures varied significantly. A day earlier, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, after visiting the area, stated the death toll stood at four. However, Indore Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargava later confirmed seven fatalities, deepening the uncertainty.
Cause of the Outbreak and Official Response
Officials pointed to a critical infrastructure failure as the root cause. A preliminary assessment indicated that drainage water seeped into the drinking water pipeline through a leak, triggering the outbreak of diarrhoea and vomiting about a week ago. The affected Bhagirathpura area falls under the Indore-1 assembly constituency of State Urban Development and Housing Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya.
Minister Vijayvargiya provided further details on the scale of the public health crisis, revealing that between 1,400 to 1,500 people were affected. Of these, approximately 200 required hospitalisation. He assured that all admitted patients were out of danger and were being discharged as their health improved. On the discrepancy in death figures, he acknowledged receiving information about 8-9 deaths locally and promised verification. "If it is found to be correct, financial assistance will be provided to the families of the deceased as announced by CM Mohan Yadav," he told reporters.
Restoration Efforts and Ongoing Review
Administrative action to control the situation is underway. Additional Chief Secretary Sanjay Dubey visited Bhagirathpura with local officials to review the ground situation. In a key remedial step, officials announced that water supply was restored in Bhagirathpura on Thursday after the leakage in the drinking water pipeline was repaired. To ensure safety, water samples have been collected from households and sent for laboratory testing. The community now awaits conclusive test results and a reconciled account of the tragedy's true impact.
