Odisha tightens drinking water safety after Indore contamination tragedy

The Odisha government has gone on high alert following the Indore water contamination tragedy, placing strong emphasis on streamlining and securing drinking water supply across the state. 

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday directed authorities to prioritise water purification, repair of pipelines, and systematic management of piped water supply in all urban areas.

The Chief Minister has issued strict instructions to the Chief Secretary to ensure thorough inspection of drinking water networks in every municipal area. Urban local body officials have been asked to personally inspect pipeline networks on the ground. Any damaged or leaking pipes must be repaired immediately to prevent contamination.

As per the directive, municipalities have been given four weeks, while municipal corporations have been allotted six weeks to complete inspections and necessary repairs. After completing the work within the stipulated timeframe, civic authorities must submit a compliance report to the Housing and Urban Development Department. 

Officials have been warned of strict action in case of negligence. Moreover, if any drinking water-related issue arises in the future, the concerned officials will be held directly responsible.

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The move comes in the wake of the Indore incident, where at least 10 people lost their lives due to contaminated drinking water. Around 200 people were hospitalised after consuming polluted water, with more than 30 patients admitted to ICUs. Preliminary reports indicate that the tragedy occurred due to contaminated water entering the supply system through damaged pipelines.

To prevent a similar incident in Odisha, the state government has taken proactive preventive measures to ensure safe drinking water for citizens.