3 workers die after inhaling toxic fumes in Bathinda

Three labourers died while another was taken ill after inhaling toxic fumes at HP Mittal Energy Limited (HMEL) township situated on Ramsara Road. The victims were cleaning a sewage treatment plant (STP) when the incident took place.

According to information, four labourers hired by Nimbus Harbor (contractor) descended into the STP, where they began experiencing breathing difficulties. Upon receiving the alert, a health and safety team reached the site and rushed the affected workers to AIIMS, Bathinda. Three labourers died during treatment and the condition of the fourth is stated to be stable.

The deceased have been identified as Sukhpal Singh, Rajwinder Singh and Astar Ali. The fourth worker, Krishan Kumar, is out of danger.

Talwandi Sabo DSP Rajesh Sanehi said four workers were hired to clean the STP at the HMEL township.

He said as soon as the first worker entered the STP, he lost consciousness. A second worker entered the chamber to rescue him but he also fainted, said Sanehi, adding that the third labourer met the same fate.

He pointed out that the fourth labourer also passed out while trying to rescue his companions.

Sanehi said legal action would be initiated against the contractor after recording the statements of the victims’families.