Andhra Pradesh: Contaminated milk triggers kidney failure and urinary blockage, 4 dead and several hospitalised. Here’s what happened

Four people have died and at least 12 others have been hospitalised after allegedly consuming contaminated milk supplied by a local vendor, police said on Tuesday. Authorities suspect a chemical coolant leak from a freezer may have led to the tragic incident.

According to officials, the matter is under investigation and samples have been sent for forensic examination.

Suspected Coolant Leak from Freezer

As per preliminary findings, the milk was stored in a freezer at the vendor’s residence. Police suspect that a chemical coolant may have leaked from the freezer unit into the stored milk.


East Godavari Superintendent of Police (SP) D Narasimha Kishore told PTI, “The milk was stored in a freezer at the accused’s residence and we suspect that coolant might have leaked into it. All necessary samples have been sent to the FSL.”

The samples collected from the storage unit as well as the milk supplied to customers have been sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) in Vijayawada for detailed scientific analysis.

Kidney Failure Suspected as Cause of Death

According to the preliminary investigation, those who consumed the allegedly contaminated milk suffered acute kidney (renal) failure, leading to sudden urinary blockage and death.

The four deaths occurred over the past two days. Twelve other individuals who consumed the milk are currently undergoing treatment at hospitals.

Distribution Details Under Scrutiny

Police said the vendor stored milk at his residence in a freezer containing two containers. In addition, six cans were filled from storage tanks for distribution.

Some cans were also filled with freshly collected milk before being supplied to households in various localities. Investigators suspect that one contaminated can may have been delivered to the homes where the deaths were reported.

Vendor Taken Into Custody, Dairy Unit Sealed

The accused vendor has been taken into custody, and the dairy unit linked to the milk supply has been sealed.

A case has been registered against the vendor under Section 103(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) on charges of murder.

Police said further legal action will be taken based on the forensic findings and post-mortem reports.

The investigation is ongoing.

Inputs from PTI