The death toll in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh, has risen to 12 due to acute renal failure caused by consuming adulterated milk. A 73-year-old woman, Senapathi Ramalaxmi, passed away while receiving medical care at a private hospital after consuming the contaminated milk. Nine individuals, including three infants, are currently in critical condition battling acute renal failure.
East Godavari District Collector Kirthi Chekuri reported that 20 people suffered from acute renal failure after consuming milk contaminated with Ethylene Glycol. The incident was brought to light on February 22 following the death of Tadi Krishnaveni, 76, who was being treated for anuria at Kakinada Government Hospital.
The investigation revealed that Ganeswara Rao, alias Ganesh, aged 37, had been procuring milk from 43 farmers, storing it in a freezer, and distributing it to residents in specific areas of the city. Customers had complained of bitter-tasting milk on February 15 and the following day. Ganeswara Rao, upon noticing leakage in the freezer, had it repaired, but subsequent tests confirmed the milk was contaminated with toxic Ethylene Glycol.
Ganeswara Rao has since been arrested and placed in judicial remand as authorities continue their inquiries into the adulterated milk incident.
