Two people died and more than ten others were hospitalised in Tiruvallur district after allegedly consuming contaminated drinking water, triggering protests by residents on Saturday.
The incident was reported from Karlambakkam Colony near Pallipattu, where villagers complained of vomiting, stomach pain and diarrhoea over the past few days. According to Times of India report, locals alleged that polluted water supplied through a panchayat-run borewell and overhead tank was responsible for the illnesses.
The first victim, identified as Ezhumalai, died after being admitted to a government hospital with severe gastrointestinal symptoms. The second victim, Sudha, collapsed on Saturday morning with similar complaints and died while being taken for treatment. Several others from the locality were admitted to nearby government hospitals with symptoms of food poisoning or waterborne infection.
Following the deaths, residents blocked the Pallipattu–R K Pet road, placing stones and branches to stop traffic. The protest intensified when Sudha’s body was brought back to the village, with family members initially refusing to accept it, claiming she might still be alive. She was later taken to a primary health centre, where doctors confirmed her death.
Villagers alleged that sewage contamination may have entered the drinking water supply and accused local authorities of negligence. Health officials have collected water samples for laboratory testing to determine the exact cause of the contamination. A temporary medical camp has been set up in the area to screen residents and provide treatment.
Police and revenue officials intervened to pacify the protesters and restore traffic, while authorities said further action would be taken based on the test results.
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