Society

32 students hospitalized after chlorine gas leak in SW China

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2011-06-20 06:49

GUIYANG - A chlorine gas leak from a plant has hospitalized 32 students in southwest China's Guizhou Province, five more than that was reported Saturday, the local government said Sunday.

The students, from Yuantian Primary School near Zunbao Titanium Plant in Tongzi County, were hospitalized after they complained of nausea, stomachache and breathing difficulties Friday, said a spokesman with county's emergency management office.

By Saturday, a total of 106 students and other children living near the factory were sent to hospitals, and 27 serious cases were put under medical observation.

On Sunday, another 37 students sought medication for the same symptoms, and five of them were hospitalized, said the spokesman, adding that they were in stable condition.

A preliminary investigation showed the plant had discharged excessive chlorine gas due to an equipment failure during its trial operation at 11:10 am Friday.