Two Fatalities in Tamil Nadu Ammonia Gas Leak at Seafood Unit

A tragic accident occurred on June 21, 2026, at a seafood processing unit in Kannigaipair, Tiruvallur district, Tamil Nadu, which has raised serious concerns regarding safety protocols in industrial operations. The incident has left two women dead and approximately 67 workers affected after exposure to ammonia gas. Initially, reports indicated a higher death toll, but Health Minister K.G. Arunraj later clarified that the fatalities were limited to two individuals.

The victims were among those employed at St. Peter's Paul Seafoods Exports Private Limited, where emergency services were quickly mobilised. Thiruvallur District Collector S. Kavitha stated that 46 of the affected workers were receiving treatment at Vels Hospital, while 21 others were admitted to Venkateshwara Hospital. Out of the injured, nine of the most critically affected patients were later transported to Government Stanley Medical College Hospital in Chennai for advanced care.

In response to this tragic event, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has mandated the establishment of a three-member inquiry committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding the gas leak. This committee will consist of the Director of Industrial Safety and Health, the Member Secretary of the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, and the Additional Director of Public Health. The committee is expected to submit an interim report within 24 hours and a final report within three days.

The Chief Minister expressed his condolences, stating, 'I am deeply saddened by the tragic ammonia gas leak incident at a shrimp processing factory in Kannigaipair Village, near Periyapalayam, which has resulted in the loss of precious lives and caused injuries to several workers.' As part of his directive, the Chief Minister announced a compensation of ₹2 lakh to the families of the deceased.

Health Minister Arunraj, along with other officials, visited affected individuals at nearby hospitals, conveying their support and ensuring they receive appropriate medical treatment. Furthermore, two specialised medical teams from Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital have been deployed to provide assistance.

The incident highlights ongoing concerns about workplace safety in hazardous environments, particularly regarding the handling of toxic substances such as ammonia, which can have severe health implications if not managed correctly. The Tamil Nadu government has committed to taking necessary actions to prevent such incidents in the future and improve safety measures within the industry.