Surprise Outbreak in India’s Cleanest City Indore, 60 Fallen ill After Drinking Tap Water

A sudden health scare struck Bhagirathpura, Indore , on Tuesday, as at least 60 residents were hospitalised after experiencing severe vomiting and diarrhoea , allegedly after consuming drinking water from municipal taps. One death has been reported so far.

The incident has raised eyebrows because Indore is widely recognized as India’s cleanest city , topping the Swachh Survekshan surveys for several consecutive years due to its robust waste management and sanitation systems. Officials and experts said, however, that clean streets and waste management do not automatically guarantee water safety , which depends on the condition of pipelines, overhead tanks, and proper chlorination.

Dr Madhav Prasad Hasani , Chief Medical and Health Officer of Indore district, confirmed that all patients fell sick after drinking water from their homes. Samples have been collected for laboratory testing, with results expected within 48 hours. Residents alleged that the contamination might have originated from the Narmada River water supply, which comes from Jalud in Khargone district .

Indore Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargava said, “We can comment conclusively only after the reports are received.” Meanwhile, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has directed authorities to ensure immediate and high-quality medical care for all affected residents.

Officials are investigating possible causes, including pipeline leakages, cross-contamination in the municipal network, stagnant water in overhead tanks, or insufficient chlorination . The outbreak being confined to a single locality suggests a localized problem rather than a citywide water failure .