Visakhapatnam LG Polymers Gas Leak Victims Still Await Compensation
Five years after a styrene gas leak at LG Polymers India Pvt Ltd in RR Venkatapuram, many survivors have not received the compensation promised to them. Hundreds of families remain outside the ₹3.5 lakh relief package announced after the 2020 industrial disaster, despite repeated government assurances.
The leak on 7 May 2020 affected Venkatadri Gardens, Padmapuram, BC Colony, Gopalapatnam, and Kamparapalem. Fifteen people died, more than 1,000 were hospitalised, and over 2,000 residents continue to experience long-term health complications.
Victims were formally identified by the district administration under G.O.M.S No. 449 and classified as “red zone” residents by a state-appointed high-level committee. Yet, the LG Polymers Gas Victims Welfare Association reports that many remain excluded from compensation.
The association highlighted several lapses: beneficiaries who received state ex gratia but were not recognised by LG Polymers, exclusions due to bank mismatches or clerical errors, 186 hospitalised patients left out of official records, and families denied the initial ₹10,000 relief despite corrected transactions.
Repeated appeals to district and zonal authorities and through the Public Grievance Redressal System have made little progress. Association representatives said LG Polymers is prepared to release pending funds, but disbursement is stalled pending written confirmation of eligibility from the district collector.
Beyond financial compensation, the association is pressing for long-term support measures: a permanent multi-speciality hospital in Venkatapuram, health cards for residents, restoration of environmental infrastructure, provision of safe drinking water, reimbursement of medical expenses, and permanent employment for families of the deceased or severely affected.
The GVMC additional commissioner acknowledged receipt of the latest petition and said the matter would be examined. Survivors expressed frustration at ongoing delays.
“Justice delayed is justice denied,” said G Srinivasa Rao, a member of the welfare association. “Many victims continue to struggle physically and financially. We urge the chief minister to intervene to ensure the promised relief is provided.”
The Visakhapatnam LG Polymers gas leak remains one of India’s most serious industrial disasters in recent years. It highlights persistent gaps in compensation mechanisms and long-term support. Five years on, survivors continue to await justice and relief.