At least 18 individuals were admitted to hospitals in Hyderabad on Tuesday evening, July 9, after reportedly consuming adulterated toddy from local vendors in Kukatpally. The incident triggered alarm among public health authorities when several hospitals, including one in Kukatpally, reported patients exhibiting similar symptoms—dizziness, diarrhea, and critically low blood sugar levels. The victims were rushed for emergency medical attention as more cases surfaced within a short span.

Preliminary investigations, as reported by The Hindu, have traced the source of the contaminated toddy to a cluster of toddy shops in the Kukatpally area. Most of the affected individuals are daily-wage earners residing in economically weaker sections of Hyderanagar and Indiranagar. Among them is a 78-year-old man whose condition worsened due to pre-existing health complications, after allegedly consuming the spurious liquor from one of the suspected outlets.

Local authorities have initiated a probe into the matter and are collecting samples from the toddy vendors believed to be involved. Officials from the excise and health departments are expected to take strict action against those found guilty of selling unsafe or adulterated products. This incident has once again highlighted the dangers of unregulated liquor sales and the urgent need for improved enforcement and food safety monitoring, especially in low-income neighbourhoods.