Chennai, June 21 (IANS) At least six workers were killed and several others hospitalised after a suspected ammonia gas leak at a seafood export processing unit near Periyapalayam in Tamil Nadu's Tiruvallur district on Sunday, officials said. The Tamil Nadu government has ordered an immediate investigation into the incident.  According to police and official sources, the leak occurred at a seafood processing and export facility where a large number of migrant workers were employed. Around 120 workers, including women from Assam, Odisha and Jharkhand, were reportedly within the factory premises when the incident took place. 

Authorities said the suspected ammonia leak originated from the unit’s refrigeration or processing system and quickly spread across parts of the facility. Workers exposed to the gas began experiencing severe breathing difficulties, dizziness and irritation. Some reportedly suffered bleeding from the mouth and nose, indicating the intensity of the exposure.  Panic gripped the premises as workers rushed out in search of safety, while others collapsed after inhaling the gas.  Emergency response teams, police personnel and local authorities reached the spot and launched rescue operations. The affected workers were initially shifted to nearby private hospitals for emergency treatment. 

Police sources had earlier reported that one worker had died while undergoing 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 had suffered serious respiratory complications 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 constitution of a three-member inquiry committee to investigate the circumstances leading to 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 at the facility. Police have registered a case, and further investigations are underway. Officials are also assessing whether violations of industrial safety regulations contributed to the disaster. 

--IANS