LG Chem CEO Shin Hak-cheol will likely visit India to handle the gas leak accident there to responsibly manage the mortality event that led to the deaths of 12 people and left hundreds of others hospitalized, the chemical arm of LG Group said Sunday.
“Since the outbreak of the accident, LG Chem has operated an emergency measure team with CEO Shin in charge,” an LG Chem official said.
“Shin is also considering visiting India despite entry restrictions because of the Indian government’s lockdown imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19. As head of the company, Shin is acting as a control tower to closely communicate with the Indian government and manage the aftermath of the accident.”
The gas leak happened at the plant of LG Polymers India, an affiliate of LG Chem, on the outskirts of the Indian city of Visakhapatnam, May 7. LG Chem said “its initial investigations suggest the cause of the accident is prima facie by the leaking vapor from the styrene monomer storage tank” near the plant.
LG Chem also expressed condolences over the gas leak and vowed to provide an effective care package for victims.
“LG Polymers India would like to express sincere condolences and apologies to all who have been affected by this accident. We would like to assure everyone that the company is committed to work closely with the concerned authorities in India to investigate the cause of this accident, prevent future recurrences and secure the foundation for care and treatment,” the company said in a statement.
The company is currently operating its emergency response team to “help victims and families to resolve any issues and provide every assistance to the bereaved families.”
“All families will be contacted shortly. This team has the responsibility to provide every support for the deceased, medical supplies and household goods, and emotional management for psychological stability to all victims,” the firm said.
LG Chem acquired the plant from Hindustan Polymers in 1996 and employs about 300 there. The plant has produced various polystyrene products such as engineering plastic, raw materials used for cars and electronic parts.
The National Green Tribunal of India, a special tribunal that can handle speedy disposal of cases related to environmental protection, already imposed an interim fine of 500 million Indian rupees ($6.6 million), adding that “the amount is being fixed having regard to the financial worth of the company and the extent of the damage caused.”
Residents living near the factory are reportedly protesting LG Chem for the firm’s poor handling of toxic chemicals and demanding the shutdown of the plant, according to local Indian news outlets.
In regard to this, LG Chem said it acknowledged the situation but there’s nothing to comment on the factory shutdown, adding it will do its utmost effort to sort out the aftermath of the incident.
It remains to be seen how the leading chemical firm would manage the deadly accident at a time the company is preparing to make a leap forward.
