Tragic Ammonia Leak in Tamil Nadu Seafood Unit Claims Lives of Seven Workers

In a devastating incident in Tamil Nadu, seven women tragically lost their lives due to an ammonia gas leak at a seafood processing facility near Periyapalayam in the Tiruvallur district on Sunday. More than 67 workers were affected, with nine individuals reported to be in critical condition and receiving treatment at the Government Stanley Medical College Hospital in Chennai.

The leak occurred at St Peter’s Paul Seafoods Exports Private Limited, which specializes in shrimp processing and exports. Reports indicate that approximately 120 migrant workers, predominantly women hailing from states like Assam, Odisha, and Jharkhand, were residing on-site at the facility. The incident is particularly alarming as it transpired on a Sunday, a designated holiday for the workers, leading many to remain in the factory’s residential quarters.

According to officials, the ammonia leak originated from the processing unit and quickly disseminated throughout the premises, putting the health and safety of the workers at severe risk. Following the incident, local police have initiated a case and are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the gas leak.

Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister, M.K. Stalin, has expressed his condolences and directed the establishment of an enquiry committee to thoroughly investigate the incident. This three-member committee will include the Director of Industrial Safety and Health, the Member Secretary of the Pollution Control Board, and the Additional Director of Public Health. They have been tasked with submitting a detailed report to ensure accountability and prevent future occurrences.

This tragedy has drawn attention to the working conditions in the seafood processing industry, especially regarding the safety protocols in place for handling hazardous materials. Advocacy groups have long highlighted the vulnerabilities faced by migrant workers, particularly women, in manufacturing facilities where safety standards are often compromised. As investigations proceed, the focus will likely shift to the oversight mechanisms that govern industrial safety and health standards in factories across the state.

Source: scroll.in