Prayagraj Ammonia gas leak: A major industrial accident transpired in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj on Monday, leaving behind a trail of destruction. A cold storage facility collapsed after an ammonia gas tank exploded in the Phaphamau area, along the busy Prayagraj-Lucknow highway, killing four workers and inflicting injuries on several others, the police said. The incident sent a wave of panic across the area, and a large-scale rescue operation has been launched. [caption id="attachment_1528" align="alignnone" width="1200"] A shot from the scene[/caption]

Cold Storage unit owned by former minister Ansar Ahmad

According to police, the tragedy unfolded in Chandapur locality, where a cold storage unit owned by Samajwadi Party leader and Former Minister, Ansar Ahmad was reduced to rubble after a devastating blast. Officials said that the explosion was triggered by the rupture of an ammonia gas leak, leading to the structure’s sudden collapse.  Official sources said that more than a dozen workers were trapped under the debris at the time of the incident. Rescue teams were pressed in for service, which managed to pull out several victims. However, four of them succumbed to their injuries on the spot, while almost six others are said to be critical as of now. 

Prayagraj Ammonia gas leak: NDRF, SDRF teams deployed

To aid the rescue teams, personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) were roped in, who continue to lead the rescue efforts. Additionally, over a dozen excavators are also being utilized to clear the debris and rescue the survivors.  Prayagraj District Magistrate (DM) and Police Commissioner Jogendra Kumar reached the spot to oversee the operation. The injured persons were rushed to SRN hospital by means of multiple ambulances mobilised from across the district.  [caption id="attachment_1529" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Ambulance reaches the spot[/caption]

Traffic disrupted on highway

Authorities fear that more workers may still be trapped beneath the rubble. Most of the labourers are reportedly from the Saharsa district in Bihar. As per officials, one of the men who died has been identified as Jyotish.  The untoward incident also left the traffic reeling on the Prayagraj-Lucknow highway. Vehicular movement was stalled at the highway for several hours. 

Ahmad’s kin detained for probe

The incident has sparked anger among locals, who are raising questions over the safety standards at the facility. The police said they have detained several members of Ansar Ahmad’s family for questioning. Rescue operations continued till late evening, with police personnel deployed in heavy numbers to ensure crowd control at the site. Also read: 6 Indians killed in West Asia conflict, MEA issues statement