Jaisalmer: A worker died and another became critically ill after being exposed to toxic gas while cleaning a sludge tank at a factory in the third phase of the RIICO industrial area in Balotra district Saturday evening.The injured worker was referred to Jodhpur in critical condition. The incident has once again raised questions over safety measures in industrial units, as workers are allegedly being made to undertake hazardous jobs without proper protective equipment despite repeated fatal accidents.According to information, Prakash (25), of the Bhil settlement near Zero Railway Gate in Balotra, and Hukmaram (35), of Kalma Ki Dhani in Tilwara, were among around six workers cleaning the sludge tank at Mohit Factory.Prakash entered the tank when his foot got trapped in the accumulated sludge, leaving more than half of his body submerged. He fell unconscious after being exposed to toxic gas. Hukmaram, who entered the tank shortly afterwards, also suffered breathing difficulties and collapsed soon after coming out.The two were taken to Nahata Hospital, where Prakash died during treatment. Following the incident, Prakash’s relatives and members of the Bhil community gathered at the hospital. The family refused to take Prakash’s body, demanding compensation for the deceased and the ill worker and action against those responsible.The incident has also revived concerns over industrial safety in Balotra. In March this year, three workers died after being exposed to toxic gas while cleaning a chemical sludge tank at Laljiwala Mills in the fourth phase of the industrial area. The workers were allegedly sent inside the tank without adequate safety equipment.Experts point out that chemical sludge tanks can contain toxic gases and have dangerously low oxygen levels. Workers entering such confined spaces require prior gas testing, continuous oxygen monitoring, safety harnesses, respiratory protection and external supervision.
