AN OVERVIEW ON VIZAG GAS LEAKAGE INCIDENT
Overview: Vizag Gas Leakage Incident
What Happened?
Date: May 7, 2020
Location: LG Polymers chemical plant, near Visakhapatnam (Vizag), Andhra Pradesh, India.
Incident: A gas leak from the plant released Styrene gas, a hazardous chemical used in plastics manufacturing.
Impact
Casualties: At least 11 people died, and over 1,000 were hospitalized with respiratory problems and other symptoms due to exposure.
Affected Area: Residents living within a 3-km radius of the plant experienced health issues such as breathlessness, nausea, vomiting, eye irritation, and loss of consciousness.
Evacuation: Local authorities evacuated thousands of people from the nearby areas as a precaution.
Cause
Preliminary reports indicated the leak was caused by the improper storage of styrene monomer, which polymerizes and releases toxic gas when stored at high temperatures.
Negligence and safety lapses were pointed out, including inadequate maintenance and failure to follow safety protocols.
Response
Immediate medical aid was provided to affected people.
The plant was shut down, and an investigation was launched by state and central authorities.
The government announced compensation for victims and families of deceased.
Environmental and safety audits were ordered across similar industrial plants.
Legal and Regulatory Actions
National Green Tribunal (NGT) and other agencies monitored the cleanup and compensation.
LG Polymers faced scrutiny for violating safety norms.
Calls for stricter industrial safety regulations and better enforcement.
Significance
Highlighted risks of chemical industries near residential areas.
Raised questions about industrial safety standards and disaster preparedness in India.
Sparked discussions on corporate responsibility and environmental justice.
Do write to us if you need any further assistance.
RELATED Blog
0 comments