Report

The death toll from suspected adulterated toddy consumption in Hyderguda, Kukatpally in Hyderabad rose to four by Wednesday evening, while the number of hospitalised victims climbed to 37. Officials reported a sharp increase in cases from 15 on Tuesday night to 37 by the following day. Doctors at NIMS Hospital are treating 31 patients, while the rest have been admitted to other facilities. Medical teams have listed four patients in critical condition and placed all affected individuals under close observation.

Officials Launch Statewide Crackdown

Excise officials collected toddy samples from multiple compounds suspected of supplying the contaminated drink. They also arrested six suspects and registered five cases in connection with the incident. The state and district task forces have launched widespread inspections of toddy compounds across the region to identify potential sources of contamination and prevent further harm.

Victim Identified in HMT Hills

Authorities identified one of the deceased as P. Seetharam, a 47-year-old mason from HMT Colony and a native of Wanaparthy. He had reportedly consumed toddy on July 7 at a compound in HMT Hills. After experiencing vomiting and diarrhoea, he self-medicated and visited a private hospital the next day. Doctors later referred him to Gandhi Hospital, where he was declared brought dead. Officials confirmed two additional deaths on Wednesday, while two others died earlier under unclear circumstances.

Cause Under Investigation

Excise teams are awaiting laboratory reports to determine the exact cause of illness. Postmortems scheduled for Thursday are expected to provide further clarity. Rangareddy Excise Deputy Commissioner P. Dasarath stated that all patients remain under observation and that the department is pursuing the investigation with urgency.

Source: The New Indian Express