Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday expressed deep sorrow over the ammonia gas leak incident at a seafood processing unit in Tamil Nadu’s Tiruvallur district, which left several workers injured, including migrant labourers from Odisha.
In a post on X, the Chief Minister conveyed condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured in the mishap. He said the Odisha government is closely monitoring the situation and remains committed to extending all possible assistance to the affected workers.
Majhi further stated that the state government is in continuous contact with Tamil Nadu authorities to ensure swift coordination and support. He also informed that three senior Odisha officials have been deputed to travel to Tiruvallur to oversee relief measures and coordinate assistance for the affected workers and their families.
Meanwhile, at least six workers were killed and several others were hospitalised after a suspected ammonia gas leak at a seafood export and processing unit near Periyapalayam in Tiruvallur district on Sunday.
According to police and official sources, around 120 workers, including migrants from Odisha, Assam and Jharkhand, were present inside the facility when the leak occurred, reportedly originating from the unit’s refrigeration or processing system.
Following exposure to the toxic gas, workers experienced severe breathing difficulties, dizziness, and irritation. Some also reportedly suffered bleeding from the mouth and nose, indicating the severity of exposure.
Emergency response teams, police personnel and local authorities rushed to the spot and carried out rescue operations. The affected workers were initially shifted to nearby private hospitals for emergency treatment.
While initial reports suggested one fatality, officials later confirmed that the death toll rose to at least six as rescue and medical efforts continued. Several others remain in critical condition and are undergoing intensive care for respiratory complications caused by inhalation of ammonia gas.
