Indore is grappling with a serious public health challenge as water contamination in parts of the city has led to a surge in diarrhoea cases. Health authorities have confirmed that 20 new cases were detected during recent screening drives, while 142 patients are currently undergoing treatment in hospitals. According to officials, a total of 398 patients have been admitted so far following the outbreak.

The outbreak has prompted the local administration to intensify surveillance and medical response measures. Health teams have been conducting door-to-door screenings in affected areas to identify new cases early and prevent further spread. Officials say the screening process has helped in detecting mild and moderate cases that might otherwise have gone unreported.

Water contamination is believed to be the primary cause of the outbreak. Preliminary investigations suggest that leakage or mixing of sewage with drinking water pipelines may have occurred in certain localities. Authorities have temporarily shut down suspected water sources and are supplying clean drinking water through tankers as a precautionary measure.

Medical facilities across Indore have been placed on alert, with additional beds arranged to manage the rising number of patients. Most of those hospitalised are reported to be stable, though children and elderly residents are being closely monitored due to the higher risk of complications from dehydration and infection.

Health officials have advised residents to avoid consuming tap water until further notice and to use boiled or treated water for drinking and cooking. Public advisories have also been issued urging people to maintain hygiene, wash hands regularly, and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting, or fever develop.

The outbreak has raised concerns about urban water safety and infrastructure maintenance. Civic authorities have initiated inspections of pipelines and water supply systems in the affected zones to identify and repair faults. Samples of water are being tested to confirm the exact source and nature of the contamination.

Local administration officials have stated that emergency response teams will continue monitoring the situation until the outbreak is fully under control. Awareness campaigns are also being conducted to educate residents about safe water practices and early symptom reporting.

The Indore water contamination incident highlights the ongoing vulnerability of urban areas to waterborne diseases, particularly during periods of infrastructure stress. Experts stress that long-term solutions, including regular maintenance of water pipelines and stricter quality monitoring, are essential to prevent similar outbreaks in the future.

As screening continues and corrective measures are implemented, authorities remain cautiously optimistic that the spread can be contained. However, they have urged citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with health teams to ensure public safety.