Probe Rules Out Sabotage Theory in Gas Leak at KMML

KOLLAM: A probe into the alleged gas leak from the state-run Kerala Minerals and Metals Limited has confirmed the incident, while ruling out sabotage theory alleged by political parties and company workers.

The gas leak, which led to the hospitalisation of over 70 children, occurred from the plant on August 6-7 at Chavra here, said A Hemachandran, who headed the committee. However, he ruled out any sabotage theory behind the incident.

The company management had earlier stated that no major gas leak had occurred from the plant though there was a "minor leak of burning gas on August 6 which was sealed immediately." A detailed report would be submitted to government tomorrow, Hemachandran said.

Meanwhile, Trade Union leaders of the company rejected the probe findings and asked government to set up an "impartial" expert committee to look into all aspects of the incident. The incident had sparked a row with political parties and workers of the company alleging a conspiracy by private business interests eyeing to tap rare earth and minerals available in the area by ending virtual monopoly of the PSU over them.

The workers of the company have wondered how no adult was affected in the incident and only children were hospitalised.

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The New Indian Express
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