Indore water contamination: 26 of 50 samples test positive for bacteria; Authorities issue do’s and don’ts

Indore water contamination: Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) is continuing its efforts to resolve the water contamination issue in Bhagirathpura after recent tests revealed bacterial presence in water samples. Officials have urged residents to avoid drinking tap water until further notice and are providing alternative arrangements.

Read more: Indore water contamination reason explained

Bacterial Contamination Confirmed in Bhagirathpura

IMC Additional Commissioner Rohit Sisoniya on Friday confirmed that reports from samples collected four days ago showed bacterial contamination. Out of 50 samples tested, 26 were found to contain harmful bacteria.



Sisoniya said, “Primarily, we have resolved the problem reported near the police outpost and sealed the leakage there on a priority basis. The toilet built above the pipeline has been dismantled, and the leakage has been fixed.”

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Continuous Testing and Water Safety Measures

The Additional Commissioner emphasised that the IMC team has been working tirelessly to restore safe water supply in Bhagirathpura.

“We collected 50 samples from 32 different sites and continue testing to quickly restore water lines. Water supply will resume only after reports confirm it is safe to drink,” he added.

New samples were collected on Friday to ensure ongoing monitoring, and authorities are making daily public announcements advising residents to boil water before consumption.

Alternative Water Arrangements for Residents

Authorities have urged residents not to use tap water for drinking purposes and to rely on water tankers stationed in the area. “People may use water for cleaning, but for drinking, we recommend using tanker water and boiling it as much as possible,” Sisoniya said.

The IMC has pledged continuous updates and is working round-the-clock to ensure the water supply in Bhagirathpura is safe and reliable.

General Safety Guidelines During Water Contamination

1. Avoid Drinking Tap Water:
Do not consume water directly from the tap until authorities confirm it is safe. Contaminated water may carry bacteria, viruses, or other harmful substances.

2. Boil Water Before Use:
Boil tap water for at least 10 minutes before drinking, making tea, coffee, or preparing baby formula. Boiling kills most harmful pathogens.

3. Use Bottled or Tanker Water:
If available, use bottled water or municipal water tankers for drinking and cooking purposes. Ensure bottles are sealed and tankers are from authorised sources.

4. Avoid Using Contaminated Water for Food Prep:
Do not wash fruits, vegetables, or utensils with potentially contaminated water. Use boiled or bottled water instead.

5. Hand Hygiene:
Wash hands with soap and clean water, preferably boiled or bottled, especially before eating or preparing food.

6. Limit Bathing and Cleaning:
Showering or cleaning is generally safe, but avoid swallowing water. Use boiled or clean water if possible for children.

7. Stay Informed:
Follow updates from local authorities, municipal corporations, or the health department. They will provide instructions on water usage, supply points, and safety measures.

8. Report Health Symptoms:
If anyone develops diarrhoea, vomiting, fever, or other signs of infection, seek medical attention immediately and inform the doctor about potential water contamination exposure.

9. Disinfect Storage Containers:
Clean and disinfect water storage containers, tanks, and jars once the water supply is declared safe.

10. Support Vulnerable Groups:
Ensure children, elderly, and immunocompromised individuals receive safe water for drinking and cooking.

Inputs from ANI