Activists and survivor groups in Bhopal claim that a majority of drinking water samples collected near the abandoned Union Carbide factory are contaminated. Hindustan Times reports that 70% of samples tested positive for faecal coliform, while The Hindu, citing activists, puts the figure at 68% and warns that the contaminated supply is creating a situation similar to Indore's Bhagirathpura, where government-supplied sewage-contaminated water claimed more than 35 lives.
The two reports agree that the allegations come from survivor groups and activists, but no official confirmation has been cited. The samples were reportedly taken near the site of the Bhopal gas tragedy, which has remained a focus of environmental and health concerns. The abandoned factory continues to be a point of contention for the community.
Activists allege that the contaminated water poses a serious public health risk and are calling for immediate intervention. The exact source of the contamination has not been determined, and the reports do not specify when the samples were collected or by whom. The difference in the reported percentages—70% versus 68%—highlights the need for official verification.
Residents in the area depend on government-supplied water, which the activists say is not safe to drink. They are urging authorities to take action to ensure clean water is provided.