Daijiworld Media Network - Kakinada
Kakinada, Mar 22: The death toll in a suspected milk adulteration case in Andhra Pradesh’s East Godavari district has risen to 16, while three persons remain under treatment, officials said on Sunday.
The incident, reported from Lalacheruvu and surrounding areas near Rajamahendravaram, dates back to mid-February when consumption of contaminated milk allegedly led to severe health complications, including vomiting, abdominal pain and acute kidney failure.
According to an official release, laboratory findings confirmed that the victims died of multi-organ failure triggered by acute renal failure after consuming milk laced with ethylene glycol, a toxic substance.
The case surfaced on February 22 after multiple patients from Chowdeswaranagar and Swaroopanagar reported symptoms of kidney failure, prompting an epidemiological probe.
Authorities identified milk supplied from a dairy unit in Narasapuram village under Korukonda mandal as the suspected source. Supply from the unit was immediately halted.
Between February 16 and March 21, a total of 20 persons were hospitalised. Of them, 16 died, three are undergoing treatment, and one has recovered and been discharged.
Officials said several patients, including elderly persons and children, required dialysis and ventilator support. Emergency medical camps, rapid response teams and surveillance measures were deployed in affected areas.
Health teams conducted house-to-house surveys covering over 300 individuals, collecting blood samples for testing. Most results were reported to be normal.
The Food Safety Department collected samples of milk and other dairy products from the suspected unit for detailed analysis, while the Animal Husbandry Department also gathered samples of cattle feed and water to identify possible contamination sources.
Police registered a case under relevant provisions of the BNSS based on a complaint filed by a victim’s family member, and have taken the suspected milk vendor into custody. Forensic teams are examining the premises.
Senior health experts have been deployed to monitor treatment and coordinate response efforts. Authorities said the situation is under control, and further action will depend on detailed laboratory findings and the ongoing investigation.