A tragic ammonia gas leak at St Peter’s Paul Seafoods Exports Private Limited in Kannigaipair near Periyapalayam in Tamil Nadu’s Tiruvallur district claimed the life of seven female workers and hospitalised several others on Sunday. The incident occurred at the seafood processing facility, where around 120 migrant workers, including women from Assam, Odisha, and Jharkhand, were staying in company-provided accommodations on the premises.
News Alert ! Seven women killed in Ammonia gas leak at sea food factory in TN's Thiruvallur district, says police. pic.twitter.com/omyoWgPlCZ
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 21, 2026
The leak reportedly originated from the seafood processing unit and quickly spread across the premises, particularly affecting workers on the factory’s weekly holiday. Many victims complained of breathing difficulties, while some suffered bleeding from the mouth and nose. The affected individuals were immediately rushed to nearby private hospitals for medical attention. Tragically, one worker succumbed while undergoing treatment, and nine others in critical condition were later shifted to the Government Stanley Medical College Hospital in Chennai using 108 ambulances.
According to preliminary reports, more than 60 people were impacted by the gas leak. Personnel from the Periyapalayam police station, Fire and Rescue Services, revenue department, and health department promptly reached the spot and initiated rescue operations.
In response to the emergency, the Tiruvallur District Collector’s office requested assistance from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). A specialised Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) response team from the NDRF’s 4th Battalion in Arakkonam was swiftly deployed. The 30-member team, equipped with gas detection devices, personal protective equipment, and other specialised rescue gear, reached the site to assess the impact, isolate the hazardous zone, evacuate affected individuals, and coordinate with local authorities to ensure public safety. Rescue and mitigation efforts continued at the location.
Periyapalayam police have registered a case, and further investigation into the cause of the ammonia leak is underway.
