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Balodabazar Gas Leak Case: Shri Cement Plant Sealed, Collector Takes Action, 40 Schoolchildren Affected

Balodabazar

In a tragic incident at Khapradih Government School near Balodabazar, Chhattisgarh, 40 students fell ill due to a suspected gas leak from the nearby Shri Cement plant.

The affected children experienced symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and fainting, prompting immediate hospitalization.

Following an investigation, Collector Deepak Soni sealed the cement plant and ordered further inquiries into the incident.

Immediate Response and Medical Attention

The children were rushed to nearby medical facilities, with 30 to 35 students receiving treatment at the Primary Health Center.

Those in critical condition were transferred to the District Hospital in Balodabazar. The incident caused panic among parents and locals, who gathered outside the Shri Cement plant, accusing it of causing pollution and endangering public health.

Collector's Actions

Collector Deepak Soni, along with Superintendent of Police Vijay Agrawal, visited the site and met the affected children to assess their condition.

Following preliminary inquiries, Soni confirmed the possibility of a gas leak and sealed the Shri Cement plant. He also instructed the District Education Officer to ensure that students’ education continues uninterrupted by arranging alternative study locations. Soni emphasized that the State Pollution Control Board and the Industrial Health and Safety Department have been called to conduct a detailed investigation into the plant's operations, including air pollution levels and safety standards.

Allegations by Villagers Local residents have accused the cement plant of consistently emitting harmful pollutants that affect the health of people living nearby. They claimed that the gas leak not only led to the children's health issues but also adversely impacted their daily lives. Hundreds of villagers protested at the plant's gates, demanding its closure and stricter environmental regulations.

Shri Cement’s Statement

In response, Shri Cement management stated that it has launched its own internal investigation into the incident. The company assured its commitment to the health and safety of the local community and adherence to environmental norms.

It also pledged to provide medical support to the affected children and fully cooperate with the authorities during the investigation.

Political Reactions

Former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel criticized the state government for failing to prevent such incidents. He called for immediate action, stating, "If the government is awake, it must ensure the safety of schoolchildren. This horrifying incident is a reflection of administrative negligence."

Chhattisgarh Minister Tankaram Verma assured the public that strict action would be taken against those responsible, whether it be the company or local authorities. He also confirmed that two children were in critical condition and one has been referred to Raipur for advanced medical care.

Investigation Underway

Environmental experts and hygiene laboratory teams from Raipur have been dispatched to Khapradih to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the gas leak. A detailed report is expected soon, and if pollution from the cement plant is confirmed as the cause, strict legal action will be taken against the management, said Collector Deepak Soni.

The gas leak has highlighted the risks posed by industrial plants operating near residential and educational institutions. With two major cement factories located near the school, residents have long raised concerns about air quality and its impact on their health. This incident has intensified demands for stricter regulations and accountability from industries.

Authorities have assured transparency in the investigation and immediate measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The state government has reiterated its commitment to protecting public health and ensuring strict compliance with environmental laws by industrial units.

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