Indore Water Contamination: Six-Month-Old Infant Among Victims, Nearly 198 Hospitalised

January 1, 2026

Madhya Pradesh: The contaminated drinking water crisis in Indore has worsened, pushing the death toll to over seven, with a six-month-old infant emerging as the latest victim. Nearly 198 people remain hospitalised across the district as health authorities struggle to contain the outbreak.

Among those who died was a baby boy born after a ten-year wait for his family. His parents allege that he fell critically ill after consuming polluted water supplied to their neighbourhood.

The infant’s father, Sunil Sahu, recounted that his son developed severe diarrhoea after drinking the contaminated water. Although medical treatment was initiated, the child’s condition deteriorated rapidly during the night, with high fever and repeated vomiting, leading to his death at home on December 29.

“He had diarrhoea and fever. We took him to a doctor and gave him medicines. Later that night, his fever became very high, he vomited, and he passed away at home. I have a daughter, and this son was born ten years later. He was only six months old,” Sahu said, struggling to hold back his grief.

Minister Meets Affected Families

Earlier in the day, Madhya Pradesh Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya visited the Bhagirathpura area, one of the worst-affected localities, and met families impacted by the contaminated water supply.

Contamination Source Traced, Emergency Measures Implemented

Speaking to ANI, Vijayvargiya confirmed that the source of contamination has been identified and that repair work is currently underway. He assured residents that the situation is expected to stabilise within one to two days. As a precaution, citizens have been advised to boil water before consumption.

To address the immediate crisis, the administration has deployed 50 water tankers supplying Narmada water, while chlorine tablets are being distributed to households to prevent further infections.

Chief Minister Visits Hospitalised Patients

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav visited hospitals on Wednesday to meet patients undergoing treatment, underlining the government’s direct involvement in managing the public health emergency.

Compensation and Free Treatment Announced

The state government has announced financial compensation of ₹2 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives. Authorities have also assured free medical treatment for all affected individuals.

Officials Suspended, Inquiry Ordered

Disciplinary action has been taken against officials linked to the incident. Zonal Officer Shaligram Sitole and Assistant Engineer Yogesh Joshi have been suspended, while In-charge Sub-Engineer (PHE) Shubham Shrivastava has been dismissed from service.

Additionally, a three-member inquiry committee has been constituted under the leadership of IAS officer Navjeevan Panwar. The panel includes Superintendent Engineer Pradeep Nigam and Dr Shailesh Rai, Associate Professor at the Medical College, to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the contamination and fix accountability.