New Delhi, May 7 (IANS): Former Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and party General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday condoled the death of people due to the gas leak in Andhra Pradesh's Visakhapatnam and prayed for the recovery of those admitted in hospitals.

Rahul Gandhi took to Twitter and expressed shock over the incident. He said, "I'm shocked to hear about the Vizag gas leak. I urge our Congress workers and leaders in the area to provide all necessary support and assistance to those affected. My condolences to the families of those who have perished. I pray that those hospitalised make a speedy recovery."

Priyanka Gandhi also took to Twitter and said, "There has been a heart wrenching incident of gas leak from a plant in Visakhapatnam. There are a large number of casualties. Hope the government will get the situation under control soon. My condolences to the loved ones of the dead. I pray to God for the well being of all the injured."

Their remarks came after eight people died and over 246 were admitted in hospital after the gas leaked from a chemical plant that is operated by a multinational firm. Early morning sights included people lying unconscious on the streets and dead cattle by the roadside. People, with children strung over their shoulders, ran in panic towards hospitals. Ambulances rushed to the area and transported 70 unconscious people to the hospital.