Seven dead after ammonia gas leak at seafood processing unit in Tiruvallur; Government orders probe
A major ammonia gas leak at a private seafood processing and export facility in Tiruvallur district on Sunday claimed the lives of seven women workers and left dozens of others hospitalized, triggering an extensive emergency response from district authorities.
The incident occurred at a factory located near Periyapalayam in the district. According to officials, more than 60 workers were exposed to the leaked gas and developed breathing difficulties and other health complications. Emergency teams rushed the affected workers to nearby hospitals for treatment.
District Collector S. Kavitha stated that a total of 67 workers were admitted to medical facilities following the incident. Of them, 46 were taken to Vels Hospital while 21 were admitted to Venkateshwara Hospital. Due to the severity of their condition, nine critically affected patients were later transferred to Government Stanley Medical College Hospital in Chennai for advanced care.
Chief Minister Vijay expressed grief over the tragedy and announced financial assistance of ₹2 lakh each to the families of those who lost their lives. He also ordered the formation of a three-member inquiry committee to investigate the circumstances that led to the gas leak and recommend preventive measures.
The committee is expected to examine safety protocols, maintenance procedures, and compliance with industrial regulations at the facility.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery for those undergoing treatment.
In the aftermath of the incident, Minister for Artificial Intelligence, Information Technology and Digital Services R. Kumar visited hospitals treating the injured workers. Accompanied by senior state officials, including Tiruvallur District Monitoring Officer and Tamil Nadu Electronics Corporation Managing Director K.P. Karthikeyan and District Collector S. Kavitha, the minister met affected workers and their families to assess the medical response and offer support.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the leak, while officials continue to monitor the condition of those receiving treatment. Further action is expected based on the findings of the inquiry committee.