Indore contaminated water deaths: 14th death reported in Bhagirathpura; Kailash Vijayvargiya faces people’s anger; what Minister told?
So far, 14 deaths have been reported in Bhagirathpura, Indore, due to drinking contaminated water. The 14th deceased has been identified as Arvind (43), son of Hiralal. He was a resident of Kulkarni Bhatta. Earlier, 13 people had died between December 21 and 31.
Arvind had gone to Bhagirathpura for work on Sunday, but returned home feeling unwell. He was taking medication at home. Later, his family took him to a private hospital, where he died during treatment. Arvind is survived by his wife and three children, who live separately. He was the only son of his parents.
On Thursday morning, Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya visited the Bhagirathpura area. During his visit, he handed over checks of Rs. 2 lakh each to the families of seven deceased. The family members expressed their anger in the minister's presence, saying, "We don't want your check."
The Health Department has so far surveyed 7992 houses. 2456 people were found to be infected or suspected of being infected. More than 200 people were admitted to the hospital. About 40 have been discharged. 162 people are currently undergoing treatment in different hospitals. The Indore bench of the MP High Court has sought a status report from the government by January 2nd on a public interest litigation. It has also ordered free treatment for all affected individuals.
Women express their anger in front of Minister Vijayvargiya
Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya arrived in Bhagirathpura on a scooter on Thursday. During his visit, women expressed their anger. A video of this was posted on social media by PCC Chief Jitu Patwari. In the video, a woman is seen saying, "Dirty water has been coming for the last two years. The BJP councilor was informed repeatedly, but the problem has not been resolved till date."
Jitu wrote, "The entire neighborhood is sick, but the minister, intoxicated with the arrogance of power, drove away without even listening to the woman."
The women stopped the minister's scooter on the road. They complained about the dirty water and also the local corporator. Seeing their anger, the minister asked the scooter driver to move on.
40-50 patients discharged
Meanwhile, Vijayvargiya said that 40-50 patients were discharged yesterday (Dec 31), and a similar number are expected to be discharged today (Jan 1). No patient admitted to the ICU is in critical condition. The minister said that quality and timely treatment are the government's priority.
One officer each from the Health Department and the Revenue Department will be deployed at all hospitals. Help desks are being set up in hospitals so that patients and their families can get immediate assistance with any problems. Volunteers are also present at the hospitals, and patients' needs, such as coconut water and medicines, are being met promptly.
60 percent of the pipeline replaced
Regarding the pipeline, the minister said that 60 percent of the line has been replaced, and tenders have been issued for replacing the remaining 40 percent. The locations of the leaks will become clear only after the line is operational. Random sampling will be conducted, and water samples will be taken. Addressing the questions being raised about the death toll, the minister said that there is confusion between government records and local information.
According to doctors, some deaths are being attributed to natural causes, but the government will conduct a thorough investigation. As announced by the Chief Minister, financial assistance will be provided to the affected families.