Chennai/Tiruvallur: A major industrial tragedy struck Tamil Nadu’s Tiruvallur district on Sunday after a suspected ammonia gas leak at a seafood processing and export unit claimed the lives of two workers and left dozens of others hospitalized.
According to officials, the accident occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning, when workers were on duty at the seafood processing and export unit in Manjangaranai near Periyapalayam in Tiruvallur district. A suspected leak from the plant’s ammonia-based refrigeration system quickly spread through the facility, triggering panic among workers and leading to a large-scale emergency response.
#WIONPulse | ‘Ammonia gas leak’ in Tamil Nadu: 2 dead, 64 affected
CM Vijay announces constitution of a probe committee @BislaDiksha has more pic.twitter.com/UbVMIfVoKp
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Two Workers Lose Their Lives
The toxic leak affected a large number of employees working at the plant. Authorities said around 67 workers were exposed to the gas and were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. Many suffered breathing difficulties, dizziness, eye irritation, and other symptoms associated with ammonia exposure.
Despite efforts by medical teams, two women workers succumbed to the effects of the gas leak. Several others remain under medical observation, with some reported to be in critical condition.
Panic and Rescue Operations
Eyewitnesses recounted chaotic scenes as workers scrambled to escape the premises after inhaling the gas. Some reportedly collapsed inside the facility, prompting an immediate rescue operation involving police personnel, fire and rescue services, health officials, and district administration teams.
Ambulances ferried the injured to hospitals in Tiruvallur and Chennai, while emergency responders worked to secure the affected area and prevent further exposure.
Probe Ordered into the Incident
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay expressed deep grief over the loss of lives and directed officials to ensure the best possible medical treatment for the injured. The state government has ordered a detailed investigation into the incident.
A high-level committee comprising officials from industrial safety, public health, and pollution control departments has been tasked with determining the exact cause of the leak and identifying any lapses in safety protocols.
Focus on Safety Compliance
Preliminary findings indicate that the leak may have originated from a component of the plant’s ammonia-based refrigeration system. Investigators are examining whether maintenance procedures were followed and if adequate safety mechanisms were in place to handle emergencies.
The incident has once again highlighted concerns about industrial safety standards in facilities that use hazardous chemicals and refrigerants, particularly in labour-intensive processing units.
Government Assures Action
District authorities visited both the accident site and hospitals to oversee rescue and relief measures. The state government has assured assistance to the affected families and pledged strict action if negligence is found during the investigation.
As authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy, the Tiruvallur gas leak stands among the deadliest industrial accidents reported in Tamil Nadu in recent years, renewing calls for stronger safety audits and stricter enforcement of workplace safety regulations.
A Grim Reminder
The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with industrial operations involving hazardous substances. Safety experts have stressed the need for regular inspections, emergency preparedness drills, and stringent compliance measures to prevent such disasters from recurring.
