Eleven people have died and four others are undergoing treatment after inhaling toxic gas in Ludhiana’s Giaspura area. The source and type of gas are yet to be ascertained. Ludhiana Deputy Commissioner Surabhi Malik said it was likely that some chemical reacted with methane in manholes. The area has been evacuated and a cordon has been put in place to prevent further spread of the gas.
A team from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has reached the site to determine the source and type of gas. Samples are being collected from manholes to ascertain the nature of the chemical reaction. Teams from the district administration, police, municipal corporation and Punjab Pollution Control Board are also present at the site.
Police have sealed the area, and a fire brigade and an ambulance have been deployed. The casualties comprise five females and six males, including two boys aged 10 and 13. The DC said the gas has diluted to a large extent, and there is no need to panic, but a check will be conducted to see how far the gas has spread.
The incident is very painful, said Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. He added that all possible help is being provided, and teams from the police, district administration and NDRF are present on the spot.
The incident highlights the need for greater safety measures to prevent such incidents. Governments and companies must take steps to ensure that such tragedies do not occur. Regular safety checks and drills must be carried out to ensure the safety of citizens.
In the meantime, the families of the deceased must be provided with all possible assistance, including financial compensation. Such incidents are a reminder that human life is precious and must be protected at all costs. It is the responsibility of everyone to work towards creating a safe and secure environment for all.