The Tamil Nadu gas leak tragedy claimed five lives of Odia migrant workers at a fish processing factory in Periyapalayam, Tiruvallur district.
Odisha Labour Minister Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia confirmed the deaths and announced that a three-member team from the state government has reached Tamil Nadu to assess the situation.
The victims have been identified as Jimani Juang, Geeta Juang, Bhumia Juang, Shivani Juang, and Phulmani Juang. All were working at the factory when ammonia gas leaked on Saturday, causing severe respiratory distress. Emergency responders evacuated the area and initiated rescue operations.
Officials reported that the workers were engaged in packaging and cleaning tasks when the leak occurred. The gas spread rapidly through the facility, leaving several workers unconscious. Local authorities sealed the plant and began a detailed investigation into safety lapses.
The Odisha government expressed deep sorrow over the deaths and assured full support to the victims’ families. The visiting team will coordinate with Tamil Nadu officials to facilitate compensation and repatriation of the bodies.
The tragedy has reignited concerns over industrial safety standards and the vulnerability of migrant workers employed in hazardous environments. Both state governments have pledged strict action against negligence and improved monitoring of chemical units.
