Death Toll in Tamil Nadu Factory Ammonia Leak Rises to Five, Exposes Critical Industrial Safety Gaps

The death toll in the ammonia gas leak incident at a private seafood processing and export facility in Tiruvallur district has risen to five, while 67 affected workers remain under treatment and medical observation, according to the Tamil Nadu Health Minister's Office.

The incident occurred on June 21 during routine operations at the shrimp processing factory when an ammonia gas leak exposed workers present inside the industrial unit. Emergency response teams, including district administration officials, police personnel, fire and rescue services, and public health authorities, were immediately deployed to the site to contain the situation and provide medical assistance.

Officials said a total of 74 people were affected by the leak. Of them, 67 are currently undergoing treatment and remain under observation, while two individuals have been discharged after receiving initial medical care. Two deaths had been reported by Saturday evening, but three more victims succumbed to their injuries by Sunday morning, taking the total death toll to five.

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Medical authorities stated that most of the affected workers displayed symptoms associated with ammonia inhalation, including breathlessness, irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract, coughing, chest discomfort and varying levels of respiratory distress. Health officials continue to monitor the condition of those receiving treatment.

The exact cause of the ammonia leak remains under investigation. Authorities have launched a detailed probe to determine the circumstances that led to the industrial accident and whether any safety violations contributed to the incident.

The tragedy has also triggered a political response. Legislators from the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the Communist Party have urged the Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker to take up the matter during the ongoing Assembly session and hold a detailed discussion on industrial safety standards and regulatory oversight.

Expressing grief over the loss of lives, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay conveyed his condolences to the families of the victims. He also announced an ex gratia payment of ₹2 lakh each from the Chief Minister's Public Relief Fund to the next of kin of those who died in the accident.

The incident has once again raised concerns over workplace safety in hazardous industries, with officials expected to review compliance measures and emergency response protocols once the investigation is completed.

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