Authorities in India’s Tamil Nadu state have commenced the extraction of ammonia gas from a seafood processing facility in Tiruvallur, marking a critical phase in the response to a major industrial accident.
The operation began at 8 am local time on Saturday and is scheduled to conclude by 5 pm, though officials have indicated they are prepared to extend the effort into Sunday morning if necessary to ensure complete removal of the hazardous substance.
The extraction follows a severe ammonia leak at the St. Peter and Paul Seafoods processing and export factory in Kanigaipair Village.
The incident has resulted in a significant loss of life, with the death toll rising to 10 according to the state’s Health and Family Welfare Department.
Sixty-eight individuals were reported affected by the leak, highlighting the acute safety risks associated with industrial ammonia storage and handling in high-density operational zones.
Madras Fertilizers Limited fire and safety personnel are on-site inspecting the facility and overseeing the technical aspects of the gas removal.