516 borewells in indore declared unsafe for drinking water:RO system demand surges amid contamination scare; residents complain of polluted tanker supply

At least 16 people have died in Bhagirathpura, Indore, due to contaminated water. Residents are now fearful of using Narmada water and tanker supplies. Many households are installing RO (Reverse Osmosis) systems to ensure safe drinking water. Contamination has been reported not only in Narmada and tanker water but also in borewells across the area. Borewell water also contaminated After the contamination came to light, authorities tested borewell water in the city. Out of the samples collected, 35 failed, indicating the water is unsafe for drinking. The use of water from 516 borewells has been banned. Among these, 400 are private and 116 are government-owned. Samples were also taken from 112 water tanks, taps, and borewells on Sunday. These will be tested in a private laboratory, as the municipal lab has fewer staff. Fear drives RO installations Since 29 December, residents have avoided filling water from Narmada sources. People now rely on borewell water, RO systems, and bottled water. Tanker water is also being supplied, but residents are advised to filter and boil water before use. ORS packets and zinc tablets are being distributed. Many residents even use bottled water to make tea and breakfast. Fear has increased the demand for home RO systems. Residents install RO systems Resident Rahul Kori said he bought an RO machine for Rs 10,500. He installed it because water in the area is contaminated. Many people, including children and elderly residents, have fallen ill or died. Rahul added that tanker water is also unsafe. Another resident, Bhagwandas, said he bought an RO system on instalments. His family has been unwell, with his mother bedridden. He avoided using tanker water even for bathing and had to buy a water camper to ensure safe supply. RO operators see surge in demand Manish Vyas, an RO installation operator, confirmed that water in Bhagirathpura is unsafe. He said several deaths have increased demand for RO systems. He advises residents to drink only RO water. Calls for installations are coming in continuously. Safety measures for residents Authorities continue testing water from tanks, taps, and borewells. Residents are being urged to: Despite government advisories, the fear among residents remains high due to multiple deaths and illnesses