Odisha migrant worker becomes 18th victim of Tamil Nadu ammonia gas leak
The death toll from the ammonia gas leak at a seafood processing and export facility in Tiruvallur district, Tamil Nadu, has risen to 18. The latest victim, a migrant woman worker from Odisha, died on Friday, July 3, 2026, while undergoing treatment at a hospital.
The Health Department identified the deceased as Alathi Maharana Juanga, a resident of Ghatgaon in Odisha. She was among the workers hospitalised after the leak occurred last month at the facility, which primarily employs migrant labour from other states.
Fourteen women remain hospitalised, with one on ventilator support and another on oxygen support. The remaining 12 are reported to be in stable condition. So far, 51 persons have been discharged after recovery. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and provide medical care to those affected.
The ammonia leak, which took place in June 2026, raised concerns about workplace safety in industrial units employing vulnerable migrant workers. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
