The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has formed an eight-member fact-finding joint committee to investigate the recent Ludhiana gas leak that claimed the lives of 11 people, including three minors. The tribunal took suo moto cognizance of the case based on media reports and appointed the Chairman of the Punjab State PCB as the head of the committee.
The NGT directed the District Magistrate of Ludhiana to ensure that the families of the deceased receive compensation of INR 20 lakhs each, deducting any amounts already paid, within one month. The tribunal noted that it has dealt with similar incidents in the past and that victims are usually entitled to compensation of INR 20 lakhs for deaths and varying amounts for injuries, depending on the extent of the injuries.
The fact-finding committee will also include representatives from the Regional Director (North), CPCB, Industrial Toxicology Research Centre (ITRC), Lucknow, the Director of PGI Chandigarh, the NDRF, State PCB, District Magistrate, and Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation of Ludhiana.
The gas leak occurred on Monday in Giaspura, Ludhiana district, Punjab, causing panic among residents who quickly closed their doors and windows to minimise exposure. Officials reported that 11 people died, including five women, six men, and two children. Five of the deceased were members of one family.
SDM Swati Tiwana, who was present at the scene, said that gas levels are being continuously monitored, and factories are being inspected by the Punjab Pollution Control Board. Authorities are also reviewing CCTV footage to gather more information about the incident.
The National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF), which is investigating the case, stated that the release of hydrogen sulphide gas was the “possible reason” for the tragedy. NDRF Assistant Commandant DL Jakhar emphasised that the exact cause of the leak still needs to be determined through further investigation.
