If There Is Impurity near a Well, How Far Does Its Effect Extend?

Question

Carcasses of dead animals are lying there; near this well or pit there is another well, or a hand pump has been installed. Is the water of this well or pump impure? If it is impure, up to what distance in cubits will it be deemed impure, and at what [distance] will it be declared pure?

Answer

The depth of the pump, the well and the pit, and the softness or hardness of the ground, play a great part in this. It is therefore better to ask people of experience and insight. The limits written down by the jurists do not apply equally everywhere; they too relied on the word of people of experience and insight.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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