Chennai, June 24:
The National Human Rights Commission has taken suo motu cognisance of the tragic ammonia gas leak incident in Tiruvallur that claimed multiple lives. Acting on media reports, the commission has issued notices to the Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police, seeking a detailed report within two weeks.
In its notice, the commission directed the state authorities to submit comprehensive information regarding the incident, including the health condition of the affected workers and details of compensation disbursed to the families of the deceased. The NHRC observed that the incident raises serious concerns of possible human rights violations.
According to available reports, the ammonia leak at a seafood processing unit has so far claimed nine lives. The tragedy reportedly occurred when workers, including women, inhaled toxic gas that leaked from the factory premises while they were resting in a nearby room. The sudden exposure led to severe health complications among several workers.
More than 70 workers who were affected by the leak were rushed to various hospitals in Chennai and Tiruvallur for treatment. Many of them required immediate medical attention due to the hazardous nature of ammonia exposure.
Following the incident, the Tamil Nadu government has ordered a detailed probe and constituted a three-member committee to investigate the circumstances that led to the gas leak. The committee is expected to examine safety protocols, working conditions, and possible lapses at the unit.
The NHRC stated that it will review the report submitted by the state government before deciding on further action. The incident has once again highlighted concerns over industrial safety and the protection of workers’ rights in hazardous workplaces.