Chemical leak at dyeing unit leaves 50 people with breathing difficulties in Salem
A chemical leak at a dyeing unit in Salem, Tamil Nadu, caused breathing difficulties and eye irritation for over 50 people. Local authorities and fire services contained the leak, and an investigation is underway regarding the unit's safety compliance.
Why it matters
This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding industrial safety regulations and the risks posed by manufacturing units operating in densely populated residential areas.
More than 50 people, including workers and residents, reportedly suffered eye irritation and breathing difficulties following a chemical leak at a dyeing unit in Gugai, in Salem on Tuesday (October 6, 2026) night.
The unit, owned by Mr. Badrinathan, is located on Muniyappan Kovil Street in Ward 47 of the Salem Corporation. More than 10 workers were engaged in dyeing textile yarn at the unit.
According to the police, the workers were mixing hydrochloric acid, which is used in the dyeing process, when they noticed a leak in the dyeing room. The workers reportedly rushed out of the unit after experiencing breathing difficulties. As the unit is located in a residential area, people in nearby houses were also affected by the fumes. They complained of eye irritation and shortness of breath and alerted the Fire and Rescue Services.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in