Chennai: At least six workers died and several others were hospitalised after a suspected ammonia gas leak at a seafood processing and export facility near Periyapalyam in Tamil Nadu’s Tiruvallur district on Sunday, officials said.
The incident occurred while around 120 workers were on duty at the factory. Among them were migrant workers from Assam, Odisha and Jharkhand, according to authorities.
Preliminary reports suggest that ammonia gas leaked from the unit’s refrigeration system and spread across different sections of the factory. Workers reportedly experienced breathing difficulties, dizziness and severe discomfort, with several collapsing inside the premises.
Emergency response teams, police personnel and medical staff rushed to the site following the incident. Affected workers were shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment, while some critically ill victims were referred to Stanley Medical College Hospital for advanced care.
The Tamil Nadu government has ordered an immediate investigation into the tragedy and constituted a three-member inquiry committee to examine the circumstances leading to the leak. The panel has been asked to submit its findings within 24 hours.
Officials said investigators are examining whether the incident was caused by lapses in safety protocols, equipment failure or maintenance-related issues. Police and labour department authorities have also launched separate inquiries.
The incident has once again raised concerns over industrial safety standards and the handling of hazardous substances in manufacturing and processing units across the state.
