Bengaluru: 19 students hospitalized after inhaling rat repellent fumes in hostel

Nineteen students from Adarsh Nursing College in Bengaluru were rushed to the hospital after experiencing severe breathing difficulties caused by inhaling rat repellent sprayed by the hostel management. The incident occurred on the night of August 18, officials reported on Monday.

Incident details

The hostel administration had applied rat poison within the premises to tackle a rodent infestation. However, the potent chemicals used in the repellent adversely affected the students residing in the hostel. West Bengaluru Deputy Commissioner of Police, S Girish, confirmed the number of affected students and the immediate medical response that followed.

"A total of 19 students were sick due to breathing problems due to the presence of poisonous substances and they were immediately admitted to the nearby hospitals along with the other students in the hostel and the staff of the hostel and the public," stated DCP S Girish.

Students' health status

Out of the nineteen students admitted, three have been reported to be in critical condition and have been transferred to the Intensive Care Unit for advanced treatment. The affected students have been identified as Jayan Varghese, Dileesh, and Jo Mon.

"Almost all the students have received treatment in the hospitals and are healthy, among them three students named Jayan Varghese, Dileesh, and Jo Mon are seriously ill and are being admitted to the ICU," the Deputy Commissioner added.

Legal actions undertaken

In response to the incident, authorities have initiated legal proceedings against the hostel management. The West Bengaluru Police have announced that a case will be registered under section 286 BNS against the staff responsible for the improper handling and application of the rat poison.

DCP Girish emphasised the seriousness of the negligence, stating that appropriate action will be taken to ensure such incidents do not recur in the future.

Ongoing investigations

The police are currently investigating the exact circumstances that led to the excessive exposure of students to the toxic fumes. Preliminary reports suggest a lack of adequate safety measures and improper ventilation during the application of the rat repellent. The college administration has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.

Health officials have advised that all necessary precautions should be taken while using toxic substances, especially in residential areas, to prevent such hazardous outcomes.