At least two migrant workers lost their lives and 67 others were affected following an ammonia gas leak at a seafood processing and export facility in Tamil Nadu’s Tiruvallur district on Saturday. The incident triggered an immediate emergency response, with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) being alerted and mobilised to assist local authorities.
The affected workers, many of whom hailed from states such as Odisha, Jharkhand and Bihar, reportedly experienced breathing difficulties and other health complications after exposure to the leaked gas. They were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.
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Tamil Nadu Minister for Artificial Intelligence, Information Technology and Digital Services, R Kumar, described the incident as extremely tragic. He stated that 60 women and four men had been exposed to the ammonia, which was being used as a coolant in the factory’s operations. Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and directed officials to take strict action against those responsible.
The state government announced compensation of 2 lakh for the families of the victims. Authorities have registered an FIR and secured the company’s two owners for questioning as investigations continue.
To determine the cause of the leak, the Chief Minister constituted a three-member inquiry committee comprising officials from industrial safety, pollution control and public health departments. The panel has been asked to submit an interim report within 24 hours and a detailed report within three days.
Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar also expressed grief over the tragedy and wished a speedy recovery to those undergoing treatment.
