Tamil Nadu Ammonia gas leak; 12 hospitalised
Ammonia gas leak: In Tamil Nadu's Ennore, a situation arose due to an ammonia gas leak, causing alarm among the locals. The leak, reported from a pipeline at Coromandel International Limited, a company dealing with fertiliser production using ammonia, led to discomfort and health issues for residents.
Late last night, about 12 individuals were hospitalised following the ammonia gas leakage incident. The leak reportedly occurred during the pipeline's pre-cooling operation, prompting the company to notify authorities around 12:45 am.
The incident stirred panic among nearby residents, particularly those from areas like Periyakuppam and Chinnakuppam, who experienced a strong odor, breathing difficulties, and general discomfort due to the gas. In response, emergency services including police and district administration swiftly organised ambulances and public transportation to relocate affected individuals to safer areas. Around midnight, 12 villagers were admitted to Stanley hospital, their conditions reported as stable, while others were accommodated in community halls and alternative locations.
The company managed to contain the ammonia gas leak during the night, asserting that the situation is currently under control. Authorities from the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board monitored the air's ammonia levels, registering 3ppm (2090 microgram/m3 against a 400 microgram/m3 average) near the material gate by 3:30 am.
In a statement issued by the company, they highlighted discovering an irregularity in the ammonia unloading sub-sea pipeline outside the plant premises at 11:30 pm. Immediately activating their standard operating procedures (SOP), they isolated the ammonia system and restored normalcy swiftly. The company attended to community members expressing discomfort, ensuring their well-being. They affirmed adherence to the highest safety standards, promptly informing relevant authorities about the incident.
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