Nongprue, Near Pattaya-
In the late hours of April 17th, 2024, the quiet of Chonburi Province was shattered by a chemical leak at the Banglamung Ice Factory. The leak, which occurred at approximately 11:36 p.m., sent chemical clouds billowing into the night sky, prompting immediate action from local officials.
Luckily, as of 4:00 A.M. on April 18th, the situation is under control and being suppressed by authorities. There were no deaths and nobody was seriously injured.
Read our latest update as of 9:30 A.M. by tapping or clicking here.
The District Chief of Bang Lamung, Mr. Weekit Manarojkit, was swiftly informed of the situation that unfolded at the facility located at No. 54, Village No. 12, Nong Prue Subdistrict. The leak resulted in a chemical spread covering an area exceeding one kilometer, leading to a significant emergency response.
First responders, including land disaster prevention officials from Nong Prue Municipality and Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Pattaya rescue workers, converged on the scene. Their priority was the evacuation of individuals in the vicinity and the establishment of a perimeter, barring access within a two-kilometer radius to ensure public safety.
The chemicals released, suspected to be ammonia, had immediate and severe effects on the local populace. More than 60 individuals suffered various injuries, ranging from loss of consciousness to respiratory distress and irritation of the eyes and nose. Rescue teams provided first aid before the victims were transported to nearby medical facilities for further treatment. Nobody was seriously injured and nobody died.
Eyewitness accounts from villagers living near the ice factory described the moment of the leak as deafening, followed by the emergence of a noxious cloud that caused a burning sensation upon inhalation. The panic that ensued saw many fleeing for safety, while others were rendered incapacitated by the fumes.
As the night progressed, Mr. Manarojkit, alongside administrative officials, arrived to oversee the rescue efforts. The exact number of injuries remains uncertain. Rescue operations continue, with teams working diligently to reach those affected and provide the necessary assistance.
Investigations into the cause of the leak are underway, as authorities seek to prevent future occurrences and ensure the well-being of their citizens.
This is a developing story and may be updated as more details are released.
