11 dead, many injured after gas leak in Ludhiana factory; Punjab CM assures 'all possible help'

At least 11 people, including two children, died and several were taken ill after a gas leak incident at a factory in the Giaspura area of Ludhiana in Punjab. The source of the leakage and the type of the gas are yet to be ascertained.

Photo Credit: Image credit PTI

A team of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has also reached the site. Ludhiana Police Commissioner Mandeep Singh Sidhu confirmed that eleven people have so far died in the incident.

"At least 11 casualties reported. Several people fell unconscious and they have been admitted to a hospital. A rescue team has been called to the spot. A team of doctors and ambulances have also been called," news agency ANI quoted a superintendent of police as saying.

"11 deaths confirmed till now...In all likelihood, there is some gas contamination which has happened...It is quite likely that maybe some chemical reacted with methane in manholes...All of this is being verified. NDRF is retrieving samples..," said Ludhiana Deputy Commissioner Surabhi Malik.

Two boys aged 10 and 13 are among the 11 who died in the incident, according to the police.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann termed the incident as sad and said all possible help is being provided.

"The incident of gas leak in the factory in Giaspura area of Ludhiana is very sad. Police, administration and NDRF teams are present at the spot. All possible help is being provided," Mann tweeted.

Senior Punjab Congress leader Aruna Chaudhary expressed condolences to the family of the deceased in the Ludhiana gas leak and prayed for a speedy recovery of those affected.

"Shocked and saddened to learn about a gas leak in a Ludhiana factory which has claimed 11 lives. My deep condolences to the bereaved families and I wish a speedy recovery to all those affected by this tragedy," tweeted Aruna.

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) chief Sukhbir Singh Badal condoled the deaths in the Ludhiana factory gas leak.

"As the tragedy unfolds in Ludhiana where a gas leak has claimed 11 lives, including 2 children, I express my deep condolences with the bereaved families. May Gurusahab grant eternal peace to the departed souls. Also, pray for the speedy recovery of affected survivors," Badal tweeted.

Meanwhile, the Punjab government has announced Rs 2 lakh compensation to the kin of the deceased in the gas leak incident and Rs 50,000 for those undergoing treatment.