In Tamil Nadu’s Tiruvallur district, at least six workers died and several others were hospitalised after an ammonia gas leak at a seafood export processing unit near Periyapalayam on Sunday.
The Tamil Nadu government has ordered an inquiry into the incident. According to, the leak occurred at a seafood processing and export facility where a large number of migrant workers are employed. Around 120 workers, including women from Assam, Odisha, and Jharkhand, were present in the factory premises at the time of the incident.
Police officials said the suspected ammonia leak originated from the unit’s refrigeration or processing system and rapidly spread to some parts of the facility. Workers exposed to the gas experienced severe breathing difficulties, dizziness, and burning sensations. There were reports of blood coming from the mouths and noses of some workers, indicating the severity of the gas.
Panic broke out in the premises as workers rushed outside to escape, while some collapsed due to the effects of the gas. Emergency response teams, police personnel, and local officials reached the spot and launched a rescue operation.
The affected workers were initially rushed to nearby private hospitals for emergency treatment.Police sources initially reported that one worker had died during treatment. However, as rescue and medical efforts continued, the death toll rose to at least six. Several others remain in critical condition and are receiving intensive medical care.
Doctors treating the victims said many suffered severe respiratory distress due to inhalation of the toxic gas.Those requiring advanced treatment were later transferred to the Government Stanley Medical College Hospital in Chennai.
Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay expressed concern over the incident and directed officials to provide all necessary medical assistance to the affected workers. He also ordered the formation of a three-member inquiry committee to investigate the cause of the leak.
The Chief Minister instructed the panel to conduct an immediate inspection and submit a detailed report within 24 hours. The investigation is expected to examine safety protocols, maintenance procedures, and possible lapses in the facility.
The police have registered a case and further investigation is underway. Officials are also probing whether the accident occurred due to violations of industrial safety norms.
