Health authorities in Madhya Pradesh are scrambling to contain a suspected waterborne illness outbreak in Indore, where more than thirty people have been hospitalized with severe gastroenteritis symptoms. The sudden spike in cases has triggered fears of a contaminated water supply in parts of the city, prompting an urgent investigation.
Outbreak Triggers Alarm and Official Response
The district administration was first alerted to the crisis when several private hospitals reported an unusually high influx of patients suffering from acute vomiting and diarrhoea. Dr. Madhav Hasani, the Chief Medical and Health Officer, confirmed that by the evening of December 30, approximately 32 patients had been admitted to seven or eight hospitals with similar complaints.
"We received information from private hospitals that they were seeing an unusually high number of patients," Dr. Hasani stated. He emphasized that while the exact cause is under investigation, the primary suspicion has fallen on the local drinking water supply. Water samples have been collected from the affected residences, and test results are awaited within 48 hours.
Pipeline Damage and Political Scrutiny
Preliminary investigations are focusing on potential damage to a main water pipeline. The area, supplied with water from the Narmada river, may have suffered contamination due to recent excavation work or leakage from nearby structures. Authorities have not ruled out any possibilities.
The situation has drawn attention from the highest levels of the state government. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has taken cognizance of the incident and directed officials to ensure immediate and adequate medical care for all affected residents. Meanwhile, State Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya visited hospitals and the affected locality, announcing that over 70 water samples had been collected from Bhagirathpura and surrounding areas for testing.
"Our immediate priority is the health of the people. Once everyone recovers, action will be taken against those responsible," Vijayvargiya asserted.
Reports of Fatalities and Resident Concerns
While health officials have not confirmed any deaths directly linked to diarrhoea, local reports and statements from civic authorities indicate a more severe toll. Indore Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargava mentioned that three deaths had been reported, though verified details are pending from the health department. He promised strict action against anyone found responsible.
One of the deceased has been identified as 75-year-old Nandlal Pal from Bhagirathpura, who passed away at Verma Nursing Home on the morning of December 31. He was admitted on December 28 with complaints of vomiting and diarrhoea. Doctors cited cardiac arrest as the immediate cause, noting a history of hypertension and irregular medication.
Residents of the area, however, paint a grimmer picture, alleging that nearly 150 people have suffered from similar symptoms over the past week. A detailed inquiry to pinpoint the source—whether it is pipeline damage, excavation-related issues, or a compromised water tank—will commence once the water test reports are in hand.
The administration has assured the public that all necessary steps are being taken to control the outbreak and prevent further spread, while the promise of accountability looms over the investigation.
