Sat Dec 07 00:32:15 UTC 2024: ## Cover-up Allegations Surround Visakhapatnam Pharma Factory Disaster
**Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, December 5, 2024** – A deadly gas leak at Thagoo Pharma Laboratories in Visakhapatnam’s Pharma City on November 26th has sparked controversy, with allegations of a cover-up surrounding the incident that killed two workers and hospitalized over 30 others.
Discrepancies in official reports have fueled suspicion. The Factories Department claims the accident occurred during the third stage of Lamivudine (an HIV drug) production, while the Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) reports it happened during the third stage of Pantoprozole production, attributing the leak to chlorine gas. Both reports, however, originate from information provided by the company management. Further complicating the matter, the Factories Department cites phosgene gas as the culprit, a claim disputed by scientists who highlight the easily detectable smell of chlorine. The APPCB has failed to clarify how they definitively identified chlorine gas as the cause, despite the intense odor usually associated with a chlorine leak.
Scientists’ group, “Scientists for the People,” expresses deep dissatisfaction, accusing authorities of colluding with the company management to downplay the severity of the incident. They question the independent nature of the investigation conducted by both departments and point to inconsistencies in their reports. Questions arise about the pressure build-up in the reactor, the vent opening mechanism, and the escape of liquid from the vent – all crucial aspects ignored in the official reports.
Adding to the concerns is the delayed medical attention given to the affected workers. Though the incident occurred at 4:40 PM on November 26th, the workers weren’t hospitalized until 2 AM on November 27th, a nine-hour delay, which critics believe contributed to the fatalities. The type of gas inhaled by the deceased workers remains undisclosed.
Police have now filed a case against Thagoo Pharma Laboratories under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including charges of negligence, endangering human life, and concealing the accident from authorities. The investigation is ongoing. Eleven workers remain hospitalized, but are expected to be discharged in a few days. The incident highlights concerns about safety standards and potential regulatory failures within the Pharma City.
First Piper 