Panic gripped Ennore, Chennai when residents smelled a strong odor and detected an ammonia gas leak in a sub-sea pipe of Coromandel International Limited on Tuesday night. Five individuals felt uneasy and were promptly shifted to a nearby health facility for medical attention. However, the Tamil Nadu Environment and Forest Department assured the public that the leak had been identified and stopped, bringing the situation under control.
According to the department, the incident occurred during the pre-cooling operation of the pipeline, with a message regarding the ammonia gas leakage being received from the unit at 12.45 am. Officials, including the Joint Chief Environmental Engineer, District Environmental Engineer, and the Authority for the safety of industrial operations, promptly reached the site to assess the situation. Upon inspection, a pressure drop in the pipeline was observed around 11.45 pm, accompanied by a pungent odor near the storage terminal and material gate.
Further investigation revealed gas bubbles emitting from the pipeline, approximately 2 feet from the shore. To prevent the escalation of the situation, the unit immediately began depressurizing the pipeline by diverting the ammonia vapor to the flare, successfully completing the operation within 20 minutes.
Efforts were quickly mobilized to address any potential emergencies. The police, in collaboration with the District Administration and the unit, arranged for ambulances and public transport to ensure the safety of the residents. Some individuals received first aid due to eye irritation and breathing difficulties caused by the leak. Fortunately, their conditions improved with the appropriate medical attention.
Authorities emphasized the need for public reassurance, with Joint Commissioner Avadi, Vijayakumar, taking to social media to calm any fears. In his tweet, he stated that there was no cause for panic as the leak had been stabilized, ensuring there were no further gas leaks in the Ennore area.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive measures in maintaining the safety of industrial operations. The Tamil Nadu Environment and Forest Department, along with other relevant agencies, will continue to monitor the situation to prevent any potential future incidents and promptly address any arising concerns.
As residents return to their daily routines with reassurance, it is vital for all stakeholders to work together to ensure the highest standards of safety. By implementing proper protocols and adhering to strict guidelines, the risk of industrial accidents can be significantly mitigated, safeguarding both the environment and the well-being of the local community.
