As many as 24 students from Kendriya Vidyalaya in Bapatla, Andhra Pradesh, were rushed to the hospital on Aug 25 after reportedly inhaling toxic fumes during a science lab experiment.

According to reports, the incident occurred when students from classes 6 and 7 accidentally mixed Chloroquine, soda, and a sodium solution, creating a poisonous gas that filled the laboratory of the school.

The toxic fumes caused several students to experience difficulty breathing and dizziness, leading them to leave the lab. While initial reports suggested that the students mixed the chemicals intentionally, a press release from the Indian Navy later indicated that the students reported feeling unwell after smelling tissues brought to school by a girl.

The exact substance on the tissues is currently under investigation. Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu instructed district officials to gather further details and ensure proper medical care for the affected students.

The Bapatla District Joint Collector, Subba Rao, also visited the hospital to assess the situation.

While 23 of the hospitalised students have been discharged, one remains under observation for fever, reported the media.

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