A number of Manali residents on Monday evening complained of a burning sensation in their eyes from strong fumes of ammonia.
Residents claimed the source of the ammonia was the Madras Fertilizers Limited’s (MFL) plant where production resumed a few days ago. The company, though, has denied any leak.
“We have faced this problem for 10 years. The company continues to emit soot and ammonia, and has not taken any steps to reduce the emissions,” said M. Mahalingam, a resident. Other residents complained of breathlessness.
Air pollution has long been an issue in the industrial hub that houses many chemical and manufacturing industries amid residential localities. Sources in Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board said a power outage in Manali had caused the plant to shut down, resulting in residual ammonia to be dispersed. “MFL officials at the plant were asked to take immediate action and the problem has been attended to,” the source said.
Sources in MFL said the “MFL plant producing Urea and Complex fertilizers got stripped due to failure of sub-station feeding power to MFL plant. MFL officials swung into action and brought the plant under control, avoiding any leakage of ammonia. The environment protection team of MFL inspected the plant area, and confirmed there were no signs of ammonia leakage.”
Residents of Manali claim the source of the leak is Madras Fertilizers Limited’s plant where production resumed
