A tragic incident was reported from Miryalaguda town in Telangana’s Nalgonda district, where a 19-year-old student died after accidentally consuming a toxic chemical at a private hospital, allegedly due to negligence in handling hazardous substances.
The victim, Ganesh (19), a second-year intermediate student studying at a private college in Hyderabad, had been suffering from high fever for two days. His parents brought him back to their native village, Chinna Anumula, and later admitted him to a private hospital in Miryalaguda on Saturday.
Incident occurred while giving medicine
According to officials, hospital staff advised a paracetamol tablet after noting that the teenager’s fever was high. While helping her son swallow the tablet, his mother went in search of drinking water. Finding the water dispenser empty, she reportedly entered a nearby laboratory area and unknowingly picked up a bottle containing formaldehyde, mistaking it for water.
The colourless liquid was poured into a bottle and given to Ganesh. After taking two sips, he immediately became critically ill and collapsed. Despite being in a hospital setting, he died on the spot, relatives said.
Family alleges hospital negligence
Enraged relatives staged a protest at the hospital, alleging gross negligence by the management. They claimed the tragedy could have been avoided had drinking water been made available and dangerous chemicals stored securely.
Police rushed to the hospital to pacify the situation. Inspector Nagabhushana Rao of the First Town Police Station said a case has been registered based on a complaint by the boy’s father, Satyanarayana, accusing the hospital of negligence leading to death.
Probe underway
Formaldehyde is a highly toxic chemical commonly used in laboratories for preservation. When diluted, it appears colourless and can be easily mistaken for water if improperly stored.
Police said an investigation is underway to examine safety lapses, including how the chemical was kept accessible in a patient area. Further action will be taken based on the findings.
The incident has raised serious concerns about hospital safety standards, especially the handling and storage of hazardous chemicals in areas accessible to patients and attendants.