ORDER

1. Proceedings have been initiated suo-motu in view of captioned media report about gas leak at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, affecting the health of 178 women workers.

2. In pursuance of advance notice dated 06.06.2022, issued by the Registry, response was filed by CPCB, State PCB and Porus Laboratories Private Limited. Submissions were also been filed by an NGO – “Scientists for People”.

3. The Tribunal considered the matter earlier on 03.08.2022. From the pleadings, cause of the incident not being clear, the Tribunal constituted a six member joint Committee headed by Chairman State PCB with Regional Director, CPCB, nominee of NDMA, Prof. P. Jagannadha Rao, Department of Chemical Engineering, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, District Magistrate, Anakapalli, Director Industrial Safety, Andhra Pradesh and Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad as members, to undertake visit to the site, ascertain cause of the incident and suggest remedial measures. Operative part of the order is reproduced below:-

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3. The NGO has submitted that the gas released in the present case is from Seeds Intimate Apparel Factory and Porus Lab in APIIC SEZ, exposing 369 women workers to ammon