Vizag Polymer Plant Gas Leakage: More than 10 Dead and 1000 Sick

As per the latest updates more than 10 people including senior citizens and children have been killed and several are reported to be sick after harmful gas leak took place in an LG Polymer factory in Vizag. The leakage happened around 3:00 AM. The incident led to panic around the Polymer factory in RR Venkatapuram near Naiduthota area close to Gopalapatnam.

While many people were seen lying unconscious on roads, some came up with complaints of rashes and itching in eyes and skin. People around the area have also complained of breathing problems too.

Soon after the matter came to light, the local police and authorities reached the affected areas and started with the evacuation of the locals. Though the situation is under control now, yet, emissions haven't stopped entirely. In their efforts to subdue and neutralise the impact of the leakage 500 kg of Para-tertiary butyl catechol (PTBC) chemical is to be airlifted from Daman and brought to AP amidst the lockdown.

The CM of the state Mr Yediyurappa has expressed his grief over the situation and has announced that the state would be offering Rs 1 crore each to the family members of the deceased. The PMO and Home Ministry too have expressed their condolences towards the family of the deceased and have urged the people of the state to stay calm and not panic as the situation can worsen. The Andhra Pradesh government has also ordered a probe into the matter.

Train services have also been disrupted due to the gas leak incident. More than nine Shramik Special Trains that were run to ferry migrant workers back to heir home towns amidst Coronavirus lockdown have been impacted and movement of around 35 goods and carrier trains has also been disrupted as the drivers have complained of irritation and breathlessness. 

It is believed that the gas leaked out of two 5,000 tonne tanks that had remained unattended due to the lockdown. The incident is being compared to the Bhopal gas leak tragedy which is considered to be one of the worst industrial disasters.