Lucknow factory gas leak claims one life

Lucknow, Aug 11: One person was killed and dozens of workers fell sick as toxic gas leaked from a plastics factory in Lucknow.

According to the police, the gas leak was reported on Monday and several labourers were admitted to the hospital complaining of uneasiness, vomiting, headache and abnormally violent behaviour.

They said investigations into the incident were in progress to determine the cause.

"If we find evidence that these incidents have taken place due to negligence here, then we will definitely seal the factory. They (owners) will also be charged, while we take further action," said Chadra Bhanu, the District Magistrate of Lucknow city.

Workers at the factory alleged that many of their colleagues fell sick after allegedly inhaling a gas that leaked at a plastic factory in Sarojini Nagar area of the city.

One labourer died on Friday evening.

A team of doctors was rushed to the spot to treat the ill.

"Basically this is a cerebral irritant that is stimulating the brain because of which, these patients are behaving violently. Their hands and feet have been tied up so that they don't cause any damage to themselves or others," Rajendra Sirohi, the Chief Medical Superintendent of the Sarojini Nagar Hospital, said.

The factory has been closed pending further investigations.

ANI>