Odisha firefighters contain Ammonia Gas leak at Paradip Ice Factory

Bhubaneswar (By Abhishek Mohanty): 
A swift and coordinated response by the Odisha Fire and Emergency Services Department averted a 
major industrial mishap on Wednesday following an ammonia gas leak at the Paradip Ice Factory in Paradipgarh.

The alert was first received from the IIC, Paradip Lock Police Station at 11:03 AM. Within minutes, the 
team from Kujang Fire Station, led by Station Officer Kartik Kumar Biswal, reached the site by 11:19 AM 
and immediately began emergency containment operations, which continued until 2:05 PM.

Two ammonia cylinders, each containing 60 kg, were found to be leaking. These were safely relocated 
from the premises. 

The ice factory had a total stock of eight cylinders (480 kg), but only the two leaking 
units were affected. 

As a precautionary measure, all factory personnel were promptly evacuated, and 
entry to the premises was strictly restricted during the operation.

The fire team operated under chemical safety protocols using fire proximity suits, breathing apparatus 
sets, helmets, gumboots, and continuous water spray to dilute the concentration of ammonia and 
minimise exposure risk.

Fortunately, there was no fire or explosion, and no human injuries or casualties were reported.

Support was extended by fire units from PPL and IFFCO, who collaborated with Odisha Fire Services 
using additional firefighting equipment.

The Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Paradip, Additional 
SP Paradip, and IIC Paradip Lock PS were also present at the site to oversee coordination and safety 
enforcement.

Officials confirmed that had the response not been timely, there could have been serious risk to human 
life and significant property damage.

Thanks to the collective effort, the situation is now fully under 
control and normalcy has been restored