Ammonia Gas Leak at Seafood Factory Kills Seven Women in Tamil Nadu
Seven women were killed and at least 60 others hospitalized after an ammonia gas leak at a seafood processing factory in Nagapattinam district, Tamil Nadu, on Sunday, June 21, 2026. The incident occurred at around 10:30 AM at the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA)-approved facility.
According to district officials, a total of 67 workers were present at the time of the leak. Emergency services rushed all affected workers to government hospitals in Nagapattinam and nearby towns. Seven women were declared dead on arrival, while 60 others are undergoing treatment, with five reported to be in critical condition.
Cause of the Leak and Response
Preliminary investigations suggest the leak originated from a faulty ammonia compressor in the factory's refrigeration system. Ammonia is commonly used as a refrigerant in seafood processing plants. The gas, which is toxic and corrosive, spread rapidly through the work floor.
District Collector S. Venkatesh said, "The leak was contained within an hour by the fire and rescue services. The factory has been sealed, and an investigation is underway to determine if safety protocols were violated." The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board has also been roped in to assess the environmental impact.
Impact and Aftermath
The victims, all women aged between 25 and 40, were employed as temporary workers on the processing line. Their families have been notified, and the state government has announced an ex gratia payment of Rs 5 lakh each to the next of kin. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin expressed condolences and ordered a thorough probe.
Local residents reported a strong pungent smell and burning eyes soon after the leak. The factory was evacuated, and the surrounding area was cordoned off for several hours. Health officials are monitoring the hospitalized workers for respiratory complications.
The incident has raised concerns about safety standards in seafood processing units in Tamil Nadu, which employs thousands of women in coastal districts. Labour unions have called for stricter enforcement of safety norms and regular inspections.
