Vizag gas leak

GOVERNANCE/ HEALTH 

Topic: General Studies 2 & 3:

• Government policies and interventions for development in Health sectors 
• Environmental pollution and degradation
• Disaster Management (Laws, Acts etc.)

Vizag gas leak

Context: 

• Recently, there was a leak of a toxic chemical, Styrene, near Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh. 
• The source of the leak was a styrene plant owned by South Korean electronics giant LG.
• It has killed several people and left thousands sick. 

What is styrene? 

• Styrene is a flammable liquid 
• It is used in the manufacturing of:
  • polystyrene plastics
  • fiberglass
  • rubber
  • latex. 
• It is also found in:
  • vehicle exhaust
  • cigarette smoke
  • natural foods like fruits and vegetables.
• Short-term exposure can result in:
  • respiratory problems
  • irritation in the eyes 
  • irritation in the mucous membrane 
  • gastrointestinal issues.
• Long-term exposure can lead to :
  • central nervous system issues
  • peripheral neuropathy. 
  • cancer
  • depression
• Symptoms:
  • headache
  • hearing loss
  • fatigue 
  • difficulty in concentrating. 
• Styrene is included in the schedule of the Manufacture, Storage and Import of Hazardous Chemical Rules, 1989. 
• Strict norms are to be followed while handling and storing the chemical.  

Cause of the leak

• An inquiry is yet to be commissioned to know the exact cause of the leak. 
• Faulty safety mechanisms or ignoring them are being cited as the causes of the leak. 

Way forward 

• The Andhra Pradesh government must focus immediately on the medical needs of those grievously affected by the gas leak. 
• Compensation for the victims and families.
• Access to the highest quality of health care for the victims must be ensured. 
• Safety of industrial chemicals must be on continuous watch, irrespective of any pandemic. 
• The approach to public and occupational safety must be strengthened. 

Conclusion 

• The gas leak tragedy is a reminder that safety is paramount when exiting the lockdown. 

Connecting the dots :

• Industrial disasters are a result of lack of systemic accountability. 
• Presence of Industrial unit in a residential area is a disaster waiting to happen.