Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai
Chennai, Jun 21: At least six workers lost their lives and several others were hospitalised after a suspected ammonia gas leak at a seafood processing and export facility near Periyapalayam in Tamil Nadu's Tiruvallur district on Sunday, officials said.
The Tamil Nadu government has ordered an immediate investigation into the incident, which occurred at a factory employing a large number of migrant workers.
According to police and official sources, nearly 120 workers, including several women from Assam, Odisha and Jharkhand, were present inside the facility when the leak occurred.
Preliminary information suggests the gas escaped from the unit's refrigeration or processing system and rapidly spread through sections of the factory.
Workers exposed to the gas reportedly experienced severe breathing difficulties, dizziness and irritation. Some also suffered bleeding from the nose and mouth, highlighting the severity of the exposure.
The incident triggered panic inside the premises, with many workers rushing out in search of safety while others collapsed after inhaling the toxic fumes.
Emergency response teams, police personnel and local authorities quickly reached the spot and launched rescue operations. Victims were initially shifted to nearby private hospitals for urgent treatment.
Police had earlier confirmed one death, but as rescue operations continued and the condition of several workers deteriorated, the death toll rose to at least six.
Several other workers remain in critical condition and are undergoing intensive treatment. Doctors attending to the victims said many had suffered serious respiratory complications due to prolonged exposure to the toxic gas.
Patients requiring specialised care were later transferred to Government Stanley Medical College Hospital in Chennai.
Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay expressed concern over the tragedy and directed officials to ensure that all affected workers receive appropriate medical treatment without delay.
He also ordered the formation of a three-member inquiry committee to investigate the circumstances that led to the gas leak.
The Chief Minister instructed the panel to conduct an immediate inspection of the facility and submit a detailed report within 24 hours.
The inquiry will examine safety measures, maintenance procedures and any possible lapses that may have contributed to the incident.
Meanwhile, police have registered a case and launched a separate investigation. Authorities are also assessing whether violations of industrial safety norms played a role in the disaster.