LG Chem "No Secondary Leak... Evacuation Request Made for Residents in Case of Emergency"

(AFP=Yonhap News) Rescue teams transporting residents who collapsed from gas poisoning near the LG Polymers plant in southern India on the 7th

[Asia Economy Reporter Hwang Yoon-joo] LG Chem stated regarding the gas leak accident at the LG Chem plant in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India, and the evacuation of people within a 5km radius of the plant, "Due to concerns about a temperature rise inside the tank, the police requested the evacuation of residents as a precaution against a possible emergency."

An LG Chem official explained on the morning of the 8th, "The second leak of toxic gas at the India plant is not true."

Yesterday, the LG Chem India plant, which had temporarily halted operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic, resumed operations, during which the gas leak accident occurred. It is understood that at least 13 people have died as a result. In addition to the casualties, many local residents are reported to be experiencing symptoms such as burning eyes and difficulty breathing.

In the early hours of yesterday, Indian authorities evacuated 1,500 residents within a 3km radius of the plant, and at LG Chem's request, additional residents within a 5km radius were evacuated.

The LG Polymers India plant produces polystyrene products such as fan blades and cosmetic containers. The raw material, styrene gas, emits toxic gases when burned. Inhalation of the leaked gas can cause vomiting, dizziness, and other symptoms.

The exact cause of the accident has not yet been determined, but it is presumed that a chemical reaction occurred when attempting to restart operations while gas remained in the plant tanks, causing the gas to leak out.

An LG Chem official said, "The details of the accident are under investigation, and we will announce the results as soon as the Indian authorities complete their investigation," adding, "In the meantime, we are taking all necessary measures in cooperation with Indian authorities to protect residents and employees."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.