The National Green Tribunal (NGT) southern bench has taken suo motu cognizance of the ammonia gas leak from Coromandel International Limited, a fertilizer manufacturing unit in Ennore, directing the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) to submit a report on the incident. The NGT’s action follows reports of residents in Periakuppam, Ernavur, and Burma Nagar experiencing breathlessness, eye irritation, and skin issues due to the ammonia leak from the unit’s gas pipelines.
Over a dozen residents have been hospitalized, and TNPCB inspections revealed ammonia levels significantly exceeding permissible limits. The case is scheduled for a hearing on January 2, 2024. Coromandel International Limited has suspended Ennore port operations, citing abnormalities in the ammonia unloading subsea pipeline. The company assures resumption post rectification and approval from relevant authorities.