Prayagraj cold storage tragedy: 9 Labourers killed, several injured as wall collapses due to ammonia gas leak
Rescue teams, including NDRF and SDRF, are working to free trapped workers, while police and administration officials are on the scene
Prayagraj (The Uttam Hindu): A tragic accident occurred on Monday in the Phaphamau area when the wall of a cold storage facility suddenly collapsed. Nine workers have been confirmed dead so far, while several others are reported to be seriously injured. Workers working inside were buried under the debris, causing panic in the area.
According to preliminary information, this cold storage is said to be associated with a former MLA from Chandpur. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud explosion just before the accident, followed by the entire wall collapsing.
Ammonia gas leak worsened the situation
It is being reported that the cause of the accident may have been a burst ammonia pipe. After the pipe burst, gas began leaking, further worsening the situation. The toxic gas spread panic among the people nearby, leading to a stampede-like situation at the scene.
When rescue teams arrived at the scene, angry villagers pelted the ambulance with stones . A heated argument ensued between the police and local residents. The administration has deployed additional forces to control the situation.
Police Commissioner Joginder Kumar and District Magistrate Manish Verma arrived at the scene upon receiving information about the incident and reviewed the rescue operations. Debris removal is underway using JCB machines, while NDRF and SDRF teams are also engaged in relief work.
The injured are in critical condition
The injured have been admitted to Swarup Rani Hospital, where several remain in critical condition. According to an eyewitness, the workers were resting after lunch when the accident occurred, preventing them from getting out.
The gas leak is hampering rescue efforts. The strong effects of the ammonia gas are hampering rescue efforts. Local residents are trying to protect themselves by covering their mouths with cloth.
At present, the operation to rescue other people trapped in the debris is going on and the administration has ordered an investigation into the accident.