A tragic industrial accident at Tagoor Laboratories Private Limited, a pharma plant in Visakhapatnam’s Anakapalli district, resulted in one fatality and left 20 others hospitalized after a hydrogen chloride (HCl) gas leak.
The leak, reportedly caused by a liquid spill, exposed staff to a mix of HCl and chloroform vapors. Chloroform, a volatile and dense solvent, is commonly used in industrial and medical applications. Initially, eight workers were hospitalized, with seven reported to be out of danger. However, one victim, identified as Amit, a 23-year-old helper from Odisha, succumbed to the exposure. Two others remain on ventilator support, while six have stabilized.
Incident Details
The accident occurred when 400 liters of HCl spilled from a Reactor-cum-Receiver Tank, spreading across the production floor. Initial reports suggest that the plant manager attempted to downplay the situation. Caustic soda was allegedly used in an effort to neutralize the spill, and the majority of the 180 staff members on duty were sent home.
However, later in the evening, workers who had been involved in cleaning the spill began experiencing severe respiratory distress and were rushed to hospitals. The incident was brought to the attention of authorities by hospital staff, rather than the factory management, raising concerns about procedural lapses and a possible cover-up attempt.
Official Statement
According to a press release, “In the production plant, 400 liters of HCl in liquid form leaked from Reactor-cum-Reciever Tank (GLR-325). No immediate medical consequences were noticed in any workers. At night, nine persons in the vicinity of the leak complained of breathing problems and cough. They were shifted to Pavan Sai Hospital, and later, three were referred to KIMS Hospital for advanced care.”
Amit, who was among the affected, passed away during treatment. Authorities confirmed that two others are under critical care on ventilators, while the rest are recovering.
Safety Concerns and Recent Incidents
This incident comes on the heels of another industrial accident last week in Maharashtra, where a gas leak at a fertilizer plant killed three workers and injured nine others. The frequency of such accidents underscores growing concerns about industrial safety standards and the handling of hazardous materials.
Authorities are now investigating the Anakapalli gas leak, with focus on potential negligence by the plant management. Further action is expected following a detailed inquiry.
Sources By Agencies
