Web Desk: At least 25 people have died after consuming toxic drinking water in India’s Madhya Pradesh province, while 24 others have fallen seriously ill, raising alarm over water safety in the affected areas.
According to Indian authorities, the deaths were reported in Indore, while in Mhow, dozens of residents developed severe symptoms after consuming contaminated water. Many of the affected individuals were diagnosed with jaundice, with several reported to be in critical condition.
Officials said the victims suffered from severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and other serious symptoms, prompting emergency medical treatment. Following the incidents, authorities banned the use of suspected water sources and began collecting samples for laboratory testing.
The local administration has launched an inspection of the water supply system and sent water samples for laboratory analysis. Residents have been advised to boil water before use and strictly follow precautionary measures until further notice.
Local residents claimed that in several areas, water pipelines run close to dirty drains and sewerage lines, increasing the risk of contamination. They said complaints about foul-smelling and dirty water had been raised multiple times, but no effective action was taken by the authorities.
The Madhya Pradesh government stated that over Rs1.21 billion has already been spent on clean drinking water projects. However, the recurrence of such incidents has raised serious questions about the performance of concerned departments and the effectiveness of water safety measures.
Health officials continue to monitor the situation, while further action is expected after laboratory reports are received.
