AmmoniaLeak – Death Toll Climbs to Nine in Tamil Nadu Seafood Factory Gas Leak
AmmoniaLeak – The number of fatalities linked to the ammonia gas leak at a private seafood processing and export unit in Tamil Nadu’s Thiruvallur district has increased to nine, according to an official bulletin issued by the state government on Tuesday. The incident, which occurred on June 21, affected a total of 80 workers employed at the factory.
Majority of Victims Still Under Medical Care
Government data showed that 69 people continue to receive treatment at different medical facilities, while two workers have been discharged after recovering from their injuries. Patients are currently being treated at Vels Hospital, Venkateswara Hospital, Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital, and Stanley Hospital.
Officials confirmed that one additional death was reported early Tuesday morning, contributing to the rise in the overall death toll.
Migrant Workers Among the Worst Affected
Authorities stated that a significant number of those impacted by the gas exposure were migrant workers employed at the seafood processing plant. The affected individuals belonged to several states, including Odisha, Assam, Jharkhand, Kerala, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu.
Among the states represented, Odisha recorded the highest number of affected workers, followed by Assam. The latest figures highlight the vulnerability of migrant labourers working in industrial units far from their home states.
All Deceased Victims Were Women
According to official records, seven of the nine deceased workers were from Odisha, while two were residents of Assam. All those who lost their lives were women.
The victims have been identified as Shibani, Jumani Juanga, Geetha Juanga, Purnima Juanga, Champabati Juanga, Parvathi Jaunga, Sita Hasda, and Anjila Soren. One additional woman who died has not yet been formally identified, though authorities believe she was also from Odisha.
Investigation Underway Into Cause of Leak
Government agencies have begun a detailed inquiry to determine what led to the release of ammonia gas inside the factory premises. Environmental and industrial safety assessments are also being conducted around the facility to evaluate any potential risks following the incident.
Health officials continue to monitor the condition of the injured workers and have been instructed to ensure that adequate medical support remains available for those undergoing treatment.
Workers Experienced Severe Respiratory Distress
The leak reportedly occurred during routine factory operations, exposing workers to toxic ammonia fumes. Several employees immediately experienced symptoms including breathing difficulties, persistent coughing, chest discomfort, and irritation affecting the eyes and throat.
Emergency response teams, including police personnel, fire and rescue services, and healthcare workers, were quickly deployed to the site. The injured were transported to nearby hospitals for urgent medical attention.
Odisha Government Announces Financial Assistance
Reacting to the tragedy, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed grief over the deaths of Odia workers in the industrial accident. In a statement released through the Chief Minister’s Office, he extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wished a speedy recovery for the injured workers.
The Odisha government has also announced financial assistance of Rs 4 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund for the families of each deceased worker. The support is intended to help the affected families cope with the aftermath of the tragedy while investigations into the incident continue.