Two workers died and 62 others were hospitalized after an ammonia leak at a seafood export firm near Periyapalayam in Tiruvallur district, Tamil Nadu, on June 21, 2026. The incident occurred at a facility operated by a seafood export company, prompting an immediate response from local authorities and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).
The ammonia leak, which took place in the early hours, led to respiratory distress among workers. Emergency services evacuated the area and transported affected individuals to nearby hospitals. The NDRF deployed teams to contain the leak and assess the situation.
District officials confirmed that an investigation has been ordered to determine the cause of the leak. The Tamil Nadu government has announced compensation for the families of the deceased and those injured. The plant has been temporarily shut down pending safety inspections.
Ammonia is commonly used as a refrigerant in seafood processing plants. Leaks can cause severe respiratory issues, burns, and in high concentrations, fatalities. Safety protocols and regular maintenance are critical to prevent such incidents.
