In the earlier incident in Narasullabad mandal, where 91 people were hospitalised, authorities are awaiting the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) report to determine the exact cause of illness.
An official noted the challenge of regulating toddy in rural areas. “Toddy consumption is widespread, especially among the middle-class and poor families. A sudden crackdown can lead to withdrawal symptoms, as witnessed a few years ago when mass hospitalisations and even deaths occurred,” the official said.
To avoid a repeat of that scenario, authorities are reportedly planning to launch large-scale de-addiction camps in both urban and rural areas. Discussions are ongoing with senior officials to prevent adulteration and ensure only safe, unadulterated toddy is available in the district, the official added.
Alprazolam, Urea Found in Toddy
Toddy is traditionally extracted from two types of trees — palm and date palm. However, the district lacks a sufficient number of these trees to meet the growing demand, sources said.
Toddy tappers’ societies operate shops in allocated zones across towns and villages. To meet demand and increase profits, some shop owners are allegedly mixing water and harmful chemicals into the toddy.
There are growing suspicions that sedatives like Alprazolam are being added to enhance toddy’s effects. Police and excise officials have, on multiple occasions, seized substances such as Alprazolam, hydrochlorides and urea, which are believed to be supplied to toddy shop operators.
Recently, Kamareddy police arrested four persons in connection with a drug-related case tied to toddy adulteration. Experts warn that consuming adulterated toddy over time could lead to serious health complications, including neurological damage
