Panic grips Indore after 5-month-old’s death from contaminated water:People rush children to hospitals over mild illness; 15 deaths reported so far

Indore’s Bhagirathpura area is gripped by fear after 15 people, including infants, died due to contaminated water. The death of 5-month-old Avyan has particularly shaken the area, leaving mothers terrified for their children’s safety. Now, any minor symptom, a cold, mild fever, or loose motion, is treated as a potential emergency. Mothers are rushing to hospitals with their children, holding them close and seeking reassurance from doctors. Across the area, from primary health centers to major hospitals, the same scene is unfolding: anxious parents, fear in their eyes, and uncertainty about their children’s safety. The grief of Avyan’s mother, Sadhana, has become symbolic of the community’s pain. Her tears and questions directed at authorities have intensified parental anxiety, with families refusing to take any health risk lightly. 201 patients hospitalised, more than 16 children According to hospital reports, 201 patients are being treated for water-related illnesses, including over 16 children aged 8 months to 12 years. At Chacha Nehru Children’s Hospital, 19 children from Bhagirathpura were admitted. Five have been discharged, while 14 remain under treatment in stable condition. Arvindo Hospital has admitted 24 patients, including infants 3-month-old Kavya and 10-month-old Kanak, both suffering from vomiting and diarrhea. Dr. Nirbhay Mehta, in-charge at Chacha Nehru Children’s Hospital, confirmed that children showed symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. On Thursday night, Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya visited Arvindo Hospital to review the children’s condition and instructed doctors to ensure no negligence in treatment. Even minor illnesses prompt hospital visits The Primary Health Center in Bhagirathpura is seeing increasing patient numbers, though serious cases are now fewer. Children with mild symptoms are being treated on-site, but doctors from Nandanagar Maternity Hospital and other government facilities have been deployed to handle the growing crowd. Private clinics are also crowded, with many children suffering from cold and cough. Pregnant women are seeking check-ups at both government and private facilities. Residents now fear that even minor health issues could escalate. Every mother asks detailed questions about medicines and treatments. On Wednesday evening, a couple argued with hospital staff after seeing a syrup with a printed expiry date of Dec 12, 2025, fearing it was expired. Doctors clarified that the medicine was safe, but the incident reflects the heightened anxiety among residents. Families turn to boring and RO water Following the deaths, families are avoiding tap water. Many are now drinking water from borewells and RO systems. Sapna Pal said fear is natural after 14 deaths linked to contaminated water, while Asha Verma added that the problem has persisted for two months. Resident Santosh Pal shared that despite drinking boiled water for the past year, his 8-year-old son experienced vomiting and diarrhea again. “Even boiled water doesn’t feel completely safe,” he said, noting that his son had jaundice last year and the family has been cautious since. Contamination and bacterial threats Initial water testing confirmed contamination. Collector Shivam Verma said detailed reports are pending, and culture testing is ongoing at the medical college. Experts warn that drainage water mixing with drinking water can carry bacteria like Shigella, Salmonella, Cholera, and Escherichia coli, creating life-threatening conditions. Contaminated water may include sewage from toilets, washing water, chemicals, soap, and detergent. If dangerous bacteria are confirmed, authorities will have to implement strict measures to prevent further fatalities. Administration and ongoing response Authorities are closely monitoring the situation. Hospital teams, medical staff, and local administration are working together to treat patients and prevent further cases. Awareness campaigns are also being conducted to ensure residents do not consume untreated water. Despite the containment efforts, fear remains high in Bhagirathpura. Families continue to rush to hospitals at the first sign of illness, and mothers remain vigilant, worried for their children’s safety.