Major Gas Leak in a Chemical Plant in RR Venkatapuram Village, Visakhapatnam

In a shocking incident, toxic gas has leaked from a chemical plant in an industrial belt in RR Venkatapuram village, Visakhapatnam.

Eight people have died which includes two children and 300 people have been admitted to hospitals. Many victims have been put on ventilators.

The plant was trying to initiate functioning post the lockdown.

The residents, who reside near the LG Polymers India Pvt Ltd in Gopalpatnam, experienced burning sensation in their eyes and difficulty in breathing. The gas affects the nervous system.

The leakage took place at 2:30 am when most residents were asleep. 

Disturbing visuals are doing the rounds that show many people lying unconscious on the pavement while others can be seen sitting on pavement appearing exhausted. There is a scene of a man carrying a child. Locals and police personnel can be seen helping residents get into ambulances.

The municipal corporation has asked people to evacuate the area. They’ve advised people to use masks after wetting them in water.

There is a possibility that some residents may be trapped inside their homes and authorities may have to check the houses physically.

AP Minister said “A dedicated team will provide all the required assistance and also our Department team is on-site, manning rescue operations. Request all, not to panic, and help us tide over this.” Helpline numbers in the following tweet: