CM Vijay orders safety audit of hazardous industries after Tiruvallur Gas Leak
Tamil Nadu Labour Welfare and Skill Development Minister J. Mohamed Parvez informed the Legislative Assembly that Chief Minister Vijay has directed a statewide review of hazardous industries following a deadly ammonia leak at a seafood processing facility in Tiruvallur district.
The leak occurred at a factory in Kannigaiper village after a valve malfunction. A total of 74 workers were affected, including 70 women and four men. Five women lost their lives, while the remaining workers were admitted to hospitals for treatment.
According to the minister, 69 workers continue to receive medical care. Fifteen are being treated in government hospitals, 27 remain under observation in private intensive care units, and another 27 are receiving standard treatment.
The Chief Minister expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and announced financial assistance of ₹2 lakh each from the Chief Minister’s Public Relief Fund. He also directed officials to ensure that all injured workers receive appropriate medical treatment.
To prevent similar incidents, the government has ordered the formation of a committee to inspect hazardous industries across Tamil Nadu and review existing safety measures. Authorities have already begun implementing these directions.
The state government will additionally cover expenses related to transporting the bodies of the deceased workers to their native places and conducting funeral arrangements. Officials have also been instructed to ensure immediate disbursal of benefits available under the Employees’ State Insurance and Provident Fund schemes.
The Chief Minister further ordered the Director of Industrial Safety and Health, the Director of Public Health, and the Member Secretary of the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board to submit an initial report within 24 hours and a detailed investigation report within three days.
During Assembly proceedings, legislators from the DMK and CPI(M) requested a detailed discussion on the incident, seeking accountability and a comprehensive review of the safety failure. Meanwhile, AIADMK members staged a walkout, alleging that they were not permitted to raise issues during Zero Hour.