Subhechcha Ganguly 
Initial findings from an official inquiry into the recent water contamination incident in Indore’s Bhagirathpura area have revealed the presence of bacteria “generally found in sewer water” in drinking water samples, officials said on Thursday.
At least nine people have died, while more than 150 others have been hospitalised after consuming contaminated water in the area. The affected residents were admitted with symptoms including vomiting and diarrhoea, prompting authorities to launch an investigation into the source of the infection.
Officials familiar with the probe told Hindustan Times that preliminary test results indicate contamination by bacteria commonly associated with sewage. However, they cautioned that further laboratory results are awaited to identify the exact pathogen responsible.
Earlier, officials had said the outbreak may have been caused by a leak in a sewage line that contaminated a drinking water pipeline. On Thursday, they reiterated that while initial findings support this suspicion, a definitive conclusion can only be drawn after all test reports are received.
Dr Arvind Ghanghoria, Dean of Mahatma Gandhi Medical College, Indore, said the presence of abnormal bacteria had been confirmed but the precise organism was yet to be identified.
“The initial report has confirmed the presence of abnormal bacteria generally found in sewer water, comprising human waste. However, we are yet to identify the bacteria as the culture report is awaited,” Dr Ghanghoria told HT. “The stool test reports of the affected patients have also not been received yet. That will provide further clarity.”
Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely, while residents in the affected area have been advised to avoid consuming tap water until further notice. Authorities have initiated steps to disinfect water lines and supply safe drinking water through alternative arrangements.
