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Indore, known for its cleanliness, faced a shocking health crisis after sewage-contaminated drinking water triggered a deadly outbreak. Foul-smelling and discoloured water caused vomiting and diarrhoea, killing nine and hospitalising hundreds.
India’s Cleanest City Faces Deadly Waterborne Disease
Indore: Indore, one of India's cleanest cities, faced a serious public health crisis in early 2026. Residents in the Bhagirathpura area complained of foul smell, bitterness, and discoloration in the tap water. Initially, these complaints were ignored, but within a few days, the situation escalated. A large number of people suffered from vomiting, diarrhea, high fever, and dehydration after consuming the contaminated water. 15 deaths and hundreds of others have been confirmed so far.
The administration's initial investigation revealed that sewage water had mixed with the drinking water pipeline. Complaints about water quality began coming in as early as mid-December 2025, but no prompt action was taken. People were forced to continue using the same water, leading to a rapid spread of the infection. Experts believe that technical flaws in the water supply system and a lack of monitoring were the main causes of this crisis.
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Contaminated water has caused severe stomach problems in people. Vomiting and frequent diarrhea have led to severe dehydration in many patients. Children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems have been particularly affected. The sudden increase in the number of patients in hospitals has clearly put pressure on the healthcare system.
Recognizing the severity of the situation, the administration suspended water supply to affected areas and arranged for alternative clean water. Following an investigation, action was taken against the responsible officials and compensation was announced for the affected families. Repair and cleaning of contaminated pipelines has also been initiated. The administration has advised people not to use tap water for drinking or cooking until further notice.
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According to health experts, boiling water is the safest way to drink in such situations. It is important to use household purification equipment and pay special attention to cleanliness. If any symptoms appear, consult a doctor immediately to ensure timely treatment.
This crisis in Indore clearly demonstrates that cleanliness rankings alone are not enough; continuous monitoring of water supply and infrastructure is equally important. Timely warnings and swift action can prevent such tragedies.