SRINAGAR: In response to 17 unexplained deaths in Budhgal village of Rajouri, medical experts have ruled out disease as a cause and are now investigating the possibility of toxic exposure. As part of the probe, authorities have launched an extensive sampling drive across Rajouri district to identify potential sources of contamination.
Under the direction of Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Sharma, dedicated teams have collected 529 samples of insecticides, pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers from various locations in the district. A total of 257 shops were identified for sampling, including 60 dealing in insecticides, pesticides, and herbicides, while 194 sold fertilizers. Out of these, 254 shops were subjected to rigorous sample collection.
The samples, comprising 293 of insecticides, pesticides, and herbicides, along with 236 of fertilizers, will undergo thorough testing to determine any link to the deaths in Budhgal. The entire operation was carried out jointly by the Executive Magistrate, Police, Health, and Agriculture Department under the close supervision of Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Dr Raj Kumar Thapa.
The results of the ongoing investigation are expected to shed light on the mysterious deaths, guiding authorities towards appropriate action.
