An ammonia gas leak from Coromandel International Ltd in Ennore, a fertilizer manufacturing facility, led to breathing difficulties and eye irritation among locals. The leak occurred during the pre-cooling process in the pipeline, causing panic in the area. Police and environmental officials responded to the incident, and the situation is now under control. The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board recorded an ammonia level in the ambient air of 3ppm (2090 microgram/m3) near the unit’s material gate. WhatsApp messages circulated, advising residents to close doors and windows, wear face masks, and use wet handkerchiefs.
The seawater sample at the pipeline leakage point showed an ammonia level of 49 mg/L, exceeding the marine discharge standard of 5 mg/L. The police confirmed that the leak happened around midnight, triggering a response from the factory staff. An inspection team from the pollution control board recorded ammonia levels at various locations, indicating that the situation was contained. Authorities are awaiting lab results to determine the cause of the leak. The incident highlights the need for stringent safety measures in industrial facilities to prevent such accidents and protect the surrounding communities.
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