Guntur (Andhra Pradesh): Alarmed by a spate of mysterious deaths in Turakapalem village, Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has declared a health emergency and ordered urgent medical intervention.
Over the last two months, around 20 villagers have died of an unidentified illness, sparking fear and panic. Reviewing the crisis, Naidu directed health officials to:
- Hospitalise all symptomatic villagers immediately
- Conduct mandatory medical tests for all residents
- Organise weekend health camps and prepare a comprehensive health profile of the village
- Consult AIIMS–Mangalagiri specialists and, if needed, rope in international experts
Officials have briefed the CM that melioidosis virus is suspected, with blood samples sent for lab confirmation. Results are expected within three days. Transmission from cattle to humans is being investigated, as villagers largely depend on animal rearing. The illness is known to spread in rainy and waterlogged conditions, particularly among farmers.
Naidu emphasized that no new cases should emerge and instructed continuous monitoring to prevent further deaths.
Opposition Blames Govt
The crisis has triggered a fierce political row.
- YSRCP leader Ambati Rambabu accused the ruling TDP of negligence and failure to ensure clean drinking water, claiming villagers are “dropping dead like birds.” He demanded supply of mineral water and sanitation drives, while warning against further casualties.
- AP Congress president YS Sharmila went further, alleging that 35 people have died in similar circumstances over the last five months, questioning if “a health department even exists” in the state.
The unfolding situation in Turakapalem has raised urgent concerns about public health preparedness, water safety, and rural healthcare systems in Andhra Pradesh.
