Another deadly industrial disaster has jolted Tamil Nadu on Sunday, as ammonia gas leaked at a seafood processing facility in the state’s Thiruvallur district, claiming the lives of seven women employees and rendering dozens of workers hospitalised. The incident transpired at the St Peter’s and Paul Seafoods Exports unit located in Kannigaipair village near Periyapalayam, creating a chaotic situation and prompting a large-scale emergency response. 

As per officials, as many as 46 workers are undergoing treatment at various hospitals, while several others are in critical condition. According to reports, seven workers have been placed on ventilator support as doctors keep a close tab on their condition. 

Workers report vomiting, breathing difficulties

Most of the employees who were exposed to the toxic fumes complained of breathlessness, dizziness and vomiting, shortly after the leak occurred. Emergency services rushed to the scene, and the workers were transported to the hospitals swiftly for immediate medical attention.

Preliminary findings indicate that the ammonia leak originated from a measuring valve connected to the factory’s cooling system. Ammonia is commonly used as a refrigerant in seafood processing and cold storage facilities, but exposure to high concentrations can result in severe respiratory complications and other health hazards. 

Many of the affected workers, according to authorities, are migrant labourers hailing from northern India, who were employed at the facility.

CM Vijay orders immediate investigation

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister (CM) C Joseph Vijay termed the incident ‘deeply unfortunate,’ expressing condolences to the families of the ones who died. He also directed officials to take strict action against the ones found responsible. 

He has also instructed the officials to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances which led to the leak. The state government has constituted a 3-member committee to conduct an in-depth inquiry. The panel includes the Director of Industrial Safety and Health, the Member Secretary of the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board and the Additional Director of Public Health. 

The committee has been directed to submit an interim report within 24 hours and a detailed report within three days. 

Owners detained for questioning, cops register FIR

The police have registered an FIR in connection with the incident, and have also detained two owners of the company for questioning. Authorities seek to determine whether negligence or safety lapses contributed to the incident. 

Officials are examining maintenance records, operational procedures and safety protocols followed at the facility, when the leak occurred.