Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar, (DD): Organophosphorus poisoning is emerging as the likely cause of 17 mysterious deaths in Badhaal village of Rajouri, with medical experts pointing to the effectiveness of atropine injections administered to the affected patients.
According to a senior doctor, atropine, an antidote for organophosphorus poisoning, has shown remarkable results. “We initially administered atropine to two patients for unrelated reasons, such as increasing their heart rate, and they responded positively. Following this, we used it on other patients, and the recovery was notable,” the doctor said. This indicates that exposure to organophosphorus compounds, commonly found in pesticides, may be linked to the deaths.
However, the doctor cautioned against drawing definitive conclusions, stating that official laboratory reports are still awaited. “Until the test results confirm the exact cause, it would be premature to attribute these deaths solely to organophosphorus poisoning,” he added.
The deaths, spanning the past two months, have claimed the lives of 17 individuals, including 14 children, leaving the small village in shock. Several others are undergoing treatment in local hospitals, with health authorities and experts working urgently to contain the crisis.
Efforts are underway to investigate the source of the suspected poisoning, whether through contaminated water, food, or accidental exposure. Authorities are also engaging the community to raise awareness and prevent further incidents.(DD)
