Water Contamination tragedy: death toll rises to 8

The death toll due to consumption of sewage-contaminated drinking water in the Bhagirathpura area of Indore in Madhya Pradesh has risen to eight, while more than 100 residents have been admitted to hospitals for treatment, officials said.
The incident came to light on December 25 after residents complained that drinking water supplied to the locality had a foul smell and an unusual taste. Soon after, several people developed severe symptoms, including vomiting and diarrhoea, and were rushed to hospitals. While three deaths were officially reported initially, local residents have maintained that the toll has now climbed to eight. Preliminary investigations revealed that a damaged pipeline led to sewage mixing with the drinking water supply in the area, triggering the health crisis.
Taking serious note of the incident, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav ordered strict action against officials of the Indore Municipal Corporation and the Public Health Engineering Department. Zonal Officer Saligram Sitole and Assistant Engineer Yogesh Joshi were placed under suspension, while Superintending Engineer Shubham Srivastava of the Public Health Engineering Department was removed from service with immediate effect. Terming the incident deeply tragic, the Chief Minister announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each to the families of the deceased. He also assured that the state government would bear the entire cost of medical treatment for all those affected.
An inquiry has been ordered to fix responsibility for the lapse, while steps are being taken to ensure the supply of safe drinking water to the affected areas. Meanwhile, the state Congress has condemned the incident, alleging negligence by the authorities and demanding accountability for the loss of lives.