Rajahmundry Adulterated Milk Deaths Trigger Statewide Food Safety Alert
Five people died and nine others remain critical in Rajahmundry after consuming adulterated milk as authorities arrest the supplier and launch a statewide probe into food safety lapses
- Five deaths reported due to adulterated milk.
- Nine victims undergoing critical treatment.
- Milk supplier arrested after investigation.
A chilling case of food adulteration has shaken Andhra Pradesh after five people died within two days in Rajahmundry due to consumption of contaminated milk. What was once considered a basic and safe food turned fatal, triggering widespread fear and anger among residents.
The tragedy unfolded gradually. Two people lost their lives initially, followed by three more who succumbed while undergoing treatment. Nine others are still battling for survival, including two children who are on ventilator support. Doctors described their condition as extremely serious, underlining the severity of chemical exposure.
The victims have been identified as elderly residents and middle aged individuals from the city. Health officials believe the milk contained excessive quantities of harmful chemicals used to extend shelf life. Preliminary findings indicate that these substances caused severe damage to vital organs, including the liver and kidneys.
The Andhra Pradesh government responded swiftly to the incident. An ex gratia of ten lakh rupees was announced for each bereaved family. Police were instructed to expedite the investigation, leading to the arrest of a milk trader from Korukonda who allegedly ran an illegal milk distribution unit.
Investigators revealed that the accused mixed high doses of chemical preservatives into milk to store it for longer periods and increase profits. This reckless act reportedly turned the milk toxic, resulting in multiple deaths. Police have registered four murder cases based on complaints filed by victims families.
As part of the investigation, blood samples from sixty four families were collected and sent for kidney and liver function tests. Samples of milk, blood and urine from the victims were forwarded to forensic laboratories in Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada and Hyderabad. Officials stated that the final cause of death would be confirmed after laboratory reports are received.
The incident has reignited concerns over rampant food adulteration, raising questions about enforcement and public safety. Authorities have urged citizens to remain cautious while purchasing dairy products as inspections and crackdowns intensify across the state.
