Indore Tragedy – What are the effects of consuming contaminated water on the body? | Public TV

DeIn Indore, Madhya Pradesh, which is known as the cleanest city in the world, 23 people have died and more than 200 people have been admitted to the hospital after drinking contaminated water. The tragedy occurred in Bhagirathpur area of ​​the city and has shocked the entire state. So what was the reason for the Indore disaster? What is the effect of consuming polluted water on the human body? Here’s how to prevent it.

Indore Contaminated Water Tragedy:
Around December 25, residents of Bhagirathpur complained of a strange smell in their drinking water. However, by the time the authorities took action, the situation had turned into a disaster. According to preliminary investigations, there was a leak in the main drinking water pipeline, which passed under a toilet. Officials said that the leakage caused the deadly diarrhea and vomiting caused by the mixing of toilet waste water with drinking water.

What are the causes of disaster?
The main cause of the disaster was loose joints in the water pipeline supplying water to Bhagirathpur. Surprisingly, a toilet was recently constructed on the site where the drinking water pipeline was passing, and as there was no proper septic tank system, the waste from the toilet was directly entering the pit where the pipeline was. This contaminated water mixes with drinking water through loose joints in the pipeline. This pollution occurred in the main line before the water was distributed to the different villages causing a large scale damage. Also, authorities delayed in identifying this leak near the Bhagirathpur police check post, which allowed the disease to spread widely.

During the ongoing survey in Bhagirathpur, health teams have tested 9,416 people from 2,354 households. So far 398 patients have been admitted to hospitals. Out of these 256 patients have recovered and been discharged. Officials said that the infection is now under control.

As a precautionary measure, the health department has already conducted a comprehensive survey in 2,703 households and is keeping a close eye on the situation by conducting health checks of more than 12,000 people.

What happens if you drink contaminated water?
Drinking contaminated water often leads to diarrhoea. According to health experts, drinking contaminated water is not limited to upset stomach, which significantly increases the risk of many fatal diseases that attack vital organs. Bacteria, viruses and parasites present in contaminated water enter the bloodstream through our digestive system. If sewage water or industrial waste gets mixed with water sources, the water causes diseases like cholera, typhoid and hepatitis.

Sometimes contaminated water from leaks in pipelines is supplied to residential areas, the microbes in it can cause permanent damage to the liver and intestines. Dehydration, along with the electrolyte imbalances caused by these diseases, significantly increases the risk of kidney failure and neurological problems. Health experts warn that neglecting water purity can be fatal.

Typhoid, Cholera:
Impure water is the main cause of typhoid and cholera. Typhoid is caused by Salmonella typhi bacteria. It can cause high fever and intestinal ulcers. Water is lost so rapidly in cholera that the patient’s condition can become critical within hours. Both diseases can spread rapidly from person to person through contaminated water.

Hepatitis A & E:
Drinking unclean water increases the risk of viral infections such as hepatitis A and E. These viruses directly attack the liver. It causes symptoms like jaundice, loss of appetite and extreme weakness. Hepatitis E is especially dangerous for pregnant women. This inflammation of the liver can cause long-term health effects, requiring months of recovery.

Dysentery, problem of intestinal worms:
Parasites in contaminated water cause dysentery and intestinal worms. These cause bloody stools and cramps. Prolonged drinking of contaminated water can cause intestinal infections. It can prevent the body from absorbing nutrients. In children this problem is malnutrition, stunted growth. Micro-parasites in unclean water gradually weaken the intestinal lining.

According to the World Health Organization, around 10 lakh deaths occur every year due to consumption of contaminated water. Diarrhea is especially common in young children.

How to prevent?
One of the most effective ways to prevent diseases spread by contaminated water is to drink boiled water. Boiling kills most microorganisms. Additionally, clean water storage containers regularly, using chlorine tablets. Avoid drinks and ice that are kept in open air outside the house. Contact a doctor immediately if you experience symptoms of fever or diarrhea.