Chennai, 21 June (H.S.): At least seven workers were killed and several others hospitalised after a suspected ammonia gas leak at a seafood export processing unit near Periyapalayam in Tiruvallur district on Sunday, triggering panic among employees and prompting the Tamil Nadu government to order an immediate investigation into the tragedy.
According to police and official sources, the incident occurred at a seafood processing and export facility employing a large number of migrant workers. Around 120 workers, including women from Assam, Odisha and Jharkhand, were reportedly staying within the factory premises when the leak took place.
Preliminary reports suggest that ammonia escaped from the unit’s refrigeration or processing system and spread rapidly across sections of the factory. Workers exposed to the gas experienced severe breathing difficulties, dizziness and irritation. Some victims reportedly suffered bleeding from the mouth and nose, underscoring the intensity of the exposure.
The leak triggered panic within the premises, with workers scrambling to escape while several others collapsed after inhaling the toxic fumes. Emergency response teams, police personnel and local authorities rushed to the spot and launched rescue and evacuation operations.
The affected workers were initially taken to nearby private hospitals for treatment. While authorities first reported a lower casualty figure, the death toll later rose to seven as more victims succumbed to the effects of the gas leak. Several others remain in critical condition and are undergoing intensive medical care.
Doctors treating the victims said many suffered acute respiratory complications caused by exposure to ammonia. Those requiring specialised treatment were later shifted to the Government Stanley Medical College Hospital in Chennai.
Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay expressed grief over the loss of lives and directed officials to provide all necessary medical assistance to the injured. He also ordered the constitution of a three-member inquiry committee to investigate the circumstances leading to the leak and submit a report within 24 hours.
Police have registered a case and are investigating whether lapses in industrial safety measures or maintenance procedures contributed to the disaster. Authorities are also assessing compliance with safety regulations at the facility.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
