Toxic Gas Leak At Vizag, 9 Feared Death As Hundreds Hospitalized

At least nine people, including an eight-year-old girl and senior citizens have been reported dead in a toxic gas leak incident occurred near Vishakapatnam on Thursday. Around 5,000 fell sick and have been admitted to hospital due to it.

The incident occurred at LG Polymers Limited plant at R R Venkatapuram near Visakhapatnam in the morning hours of Thursday.

Soon after the gas leak at around 3 am in the morning, local people started panicking and rushed for help. While many people were seen lying unconscious on roads, some faced breathing difficulties. Some of them also reported a burning sensation in their eyes.

However, the situation is now under control and chief minister Jagan Mohan Reddy has ordered a probe into the matter to investigate over the matter.

The plant had reopened for the first time since 24 March when India went into lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus. Officials report that gas might have leaked due to negligence and carelessness of the workers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke on the incident and said that he had a conversation with the Ministry of Home Affairs and NDMA and that the situation is being monitored closely. PM Modi also spoke to the Chief Minister and assured him all help and support.