In another shocking case of manual scavenging, seven workers have died after they were made to clean a septic tank at a private hatchery in Chittoor district. The hatchery is located in the Kolla Farm locality of Moram village in Palamaner mandal.

The seven deceased were identified as Ramesh, Ramachandra, Reddappa, Kesavan, Govinda Swami, Babu and Shiva. They were reportedly employed by a private contractor.

According to local media reports, eight workers fell unconscious minutes after they entered the septic tank. They were immediately shifted to a government hospital in Palamaner by colleagues. However, four of the workers were declared brought dead at the hospital, and three others succumbed during emergency treatment at the hospital. One of the workers is said to be out of danger.

The Palamaner police have rushed to the site of the incident.

Speaking to TNM, Palamaner DySP Chowdeshwari said, "According to our primary probe, Carbon Monoxide inhalation seems to be the reason for the deaths."

The officer further said that the deceased workers all hailed from neighbouring villages.

Palamaner Circle Inspector informed TNM that a case has been filed in relation to the incident. When asked about who the contractor was, and whether anyone has been booked for making the workers enter the septic tank, the officer said they were still investigating.

No arrests have been made in the case so far.