Chennai Fertilizer Unit Ammonia Leak: Over 25 Hospitalized; Company Releases Statement

Chennai Fertilizer Unit Ammonia Leak: Over 25 Hospitalized; Company Releases Statement
A fertilizer manufacturing unit in Ennore, north Chennai, experienced an ammonia gas leak on December 26, resulting in the hospitalization of over 25 individuals. The incident occurred around 11:45 pm, causing discomfort in the neighborhood due to the spreading odor, as reported by PTI.
Residents in nearby areas, including Periya Kuppam, reported unease, nausea, and faintness, prompting their immediate transfer to nearby hospitals. In response to the gas leak, residents panicked, gathered on roads seeking assistance, while the fertilizer unit officials took prompt measures to address the technical issue, according to PTI sources.
Despite assurances from police personnel that experts were resolving the problem and urging residents to return home, a protest ensued in Ennore after a subsequent ammonia gas leak was detected in a sub-sea pipe. DIG, Joint Commissioner Avadi, Vijayakumar stated that there were no further gas leaks, with people returning home under the supervision of medical and police teams.
Coromandel International Limited's President and Head of Manufacturing (Fertiliser) and Supply Chain, Amir Alvi, acknowledged an abnormality in the ammonia unloading subsea pipeline near the shoreside outside the plant premises. Alvi emphasized the immediate activation of the Standard Operating Procedure, isolating the ammonia system facility and normalizing the situation promptly. Acknowledging the discomfort experienced by some local community members, Alvi assured that they received immediate medical attention. The company has notified relevant authorities and affirmed its commitment to the highest safety standards and emergency response systems.