In the wake of mysterious deaths and serious illnesses reported in Palwal’s Chhanysa over the past few days, a team of central experts visited the affected village on Tuesday (February 17, 2026) to conduct a detailed assessment of the situation. The team conducted detailed interviews with the families of the deceased and hospitalised patients.
Deputy Commissioner Harish Kumar Vashisht stated that during the investigation, it was found that all cases had a common condition of acute liver failure, characterised by a rapid decline in vital parameters and multi-organ failure.
Mr. Vashisht told The Hindu that no new deaths and hospital admissions were reported after February 11. “The situation is under control after the steps taken by the local administration. Though the exact cause of deaths is still not known, but we are not totally clueless. The health department has zeroed in on three-four possible causes and tests are being conducted to verify the exact reason for the deaths and illness.”
According to the health department report, seven deaths have been reported in the village so far. Four cases of hepatitis B and 17 cases of hepatitis C have been confirmed. Experts have clarified that hepatitis B and C are less likely to cause such acute deaths. The central team has recommended conducting a door-to-door survey to identify individuals with symptoms (abdominal pain, vomiting, etc.), with special attention to testing for Hepatitis A, Hepatitis E, Leptospirosis, and Scrub Typhus.
Instructions have also been given to conduct chemical analysis of drinking water and testing for heavy metals. The health department is conducting a round-the-clock camp in the village. To date, approximately 1,800 people have been screened, 1,660 blood samples tested, 118 hepatitis vaccinations administered, and over 15,000 chlorine tablets have been distributed. Additionally, fogging has been conducted, and health advice regarding sanitation and drinking boiled water has been issued.
Mr. Vashisht informed that the team of central experts inspected the village environment. As per the directives of the Central Committee, instructions have been given to further strengthen sanitation in the village. Additionally, instructions have been given to regularly check all water sources. Most households receive water from tankers from outside the village, while some draw water from RO suppliers. Villagers store their daily water and drinking water in “kundis,” which require regular purification. The team recommended ensuring regular cleaning and purification of the water stored in these “kundis.” Chemical analysis and heavy metal testing of the water are also essential.
The central team also visited the medical college in Nalhar and reviewed the case records of deceased and admitted patients and held detailed discussions with the doctors.
The district authorities have conducted fogging and issued health advice regarding sanitation and drinking boiled water.
In a special meeting of the officials concerned, Mr. Vashisht issued directions for the supply of purified water, as well as the testing of drinking water and other sources of water.
Civil Surgeon Satyendra Vashishtha stated that the district administration, through health department teams, is continuously monitoring, surveying, and providing essential health services. Villagers are being made aware of the importance of using clean drinking water, practicing handwashing, and drinking boiled water.
Published – February 18, 2026 04:32 am IST
