Paraquat ban welcomed, but implementation key: DAPP

While praising the Telangana government’s decision to ban paraquat, a highly toxic herbicide with no antidote, doctors emphasised that its success depends on strict enforcement, monitoring of supply chains, prevention of illegal sales, and awareness among farmers and local authorities.

Hyderabad: The Doctors Against Paraquat Poisoning (DAPP) on Wednesday while welcoming the decision of the State government to ban paraquat and its formulations, said that a policy decision of this nature must be supported by robust implementation on the ground.

Ensuring compliance will be key to realising the full public health benefits of the ban on paraquat, the DAPP members said, adding that effective implementation will be critical to achieving its intended impact.

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The doctors hoped for strong enforcement across districts, monitoring of supply chains, prevention of illegal sales and distribution, and awareness among farmers, vendors, and local authorities, will be taken-up by the State government.

The ban should have a meaningful impact on rural and agricultural communities, where such chemicals are more readily accessible. Paraquat, which does not have an antidote, is widely regarded as one of the most toxic herbicides in use. Even small quantities can lead to severe and irreversible damage to the lungs and other vital organs, often resulting in death.

“As doctors, we have seen the devastating impact of paraquat poisoning. In many cases, patients do not survive despite receiving the best possible treatment. This decision is therefore both necessary and life-saving,” Doctors Against Paraquat Poisoning, added.