Death toll rises to 16 in Rajamahendravaram adulterated milk tragedy

The adulterated milk incident in East Godavari district continues to turn more tragic, with the death toll rising to 16 following one more fatality. Three victims are currently undergoing treatment in hospitals in Rajamahendravaram.

The health issues were first reported after consumption of milk supplied in mid-February in the Lalacheruvu area, where several people developed symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal pain, and reduced urination . As their condition worsened, some patients suffered acute kidney failure , leading to critical complications. A cluster of such cases emerged on February 22 in Chowdeswaranagar and Swaroopanagar , prompting the Health Department to initiate an investigation.

Officials suspect that the incident was caused by milk contaminated with ethylene glycol , a toxic chemical. Doctors stated that exposure to this substance severely affected kidney function, eventually leading to multi-organ failure in several cases.

The source of the contamination has been traced to a dairy unit in Narasapuram village of Korukonda mandal , from where the milk was supplied. Authorities have immediately halted supplies from the unit.

Between February 16 and March 21 , a total of 20 people were hospitalized , of whom 16 have died . While three remain under treatment , one person has recovered and been discharged.

Meanwhile, medical camps have been set up in the affected areas, and rapid response teams have been deployed. Door-to-door surveys and tests have been conducted on hundreds of residents, with officials stating that most results were normal.

Food Safety officials have inspected the dairy unit and collected samples of milk, curd, ghee, and paneer for laboratory analysis. Police have registered a case and taken a suspected milk supplier into custody , with the investigation ongoing.

Authorities stated that the situation is currently under control , and assured that strict action will be taken against those responsible after the final reports are released.