Indore: An official audit into a spate of deaths in Indore’s Bhagirathpura locality has indicated that a majority of the fatalities may be connected to a recent outbreak of waterborne illness, according to sources familiar with the findings.
The report, prepared by a panel of senior doctors from the government-run Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Medical College, examined 21 deaths reported from the area. Sources said the panel found that around 15 of these cases appeared to have links—direct or indirect—to severe vomiting and diarrhoea believed to be caused by contaminated drinking water.
The audit was submitted to the district administration earlier this week. While confirming its receipt, District Magistrate Shivam Verma said the panel was set up to review medical records and circumstances surrounding the deaths. He did not disclose detailed conclusions, noting that some cases could not be definitively attributed to the outbreak.
“Several deaths are likely associated with illness caused by unsafe drinking water, while others do not appear to be connected. In a few instances, the committee could not reach a clear determination,” Verma told reporters.
The outbreak has continued to affect residents of Bhagirathpura, even as authorities step up monitoring. On Tuesday, five new diarrhoea cases were detected, all of whom sought treatment at outpatient departments and were later discharged, according to Indore Chief Medical and Health Officer Dr Madhav Prasad Hasani.
So far, the district administration has officially acknowledged six deaths directly resulting from vomiting and diarrhoea linked to contaminated water. However, local residents have disputed the figure, claiming that more than 20 people—including an infant—have died since the outbreak began.
Health department data shows that 436 patients have been admitted to hospitals since December 29, when the contaminated water supply is believed to have triggered the crisis. Of these, 403 have recovered and been discharged. Thirty-three patients remain hospitalised, with eight currently receiving treatment in intensive care units.
In response to the tragedy, the administration has announced financial assistance of ₹2 lakh for each affected family, with 18 families having received compensation so far.
“All these deaths are deeply distressing, regardless of the underlying cause,” Verma said. “Our priority is to support the families and ensure medical care for those still undergoing treatment.”
Authorities continue to investigate the source of contamination and have said corrective measures are being taken to prevent further cases in the affected neighbourhood.
