In a small village in Lai'an County, Xin'an Township, a sudden and alarming incident occurred when dense, toxic fog unexpectedly filled the air. Xu Qijun, the head of Shiyuan Village Group, was tending to his vegetable garden on a hot morning when he noticed thick smoke coming from a nearby chemical plant just 40 to 50 meters away. His instincts kicked in—something was wrong.
Xu immediately called a worker at the factory, who confirmed that there had been a leak. As the fog grew darker and more oppressive, it drifted toward him. Soon after, Xu began experiencing severe symptoms: dry throat, nausea, dizziness, and an overwhelming sense of unease. He realized he had inhaled dangerous gases.
Later that day, a shocking scene unfolded. A group of workers in gas masks arrived in an electric vehicle and escorted two villagers, including Xu, toward the river, which was over a hundred meters away. They were not taken to the hospital but instead left near the water before driving off. It wasn’t until other villagers called for emergency help that Xu and another person were transported to the local hospital. In the following hours, 12 more villagers were admitted with similar symptoms.
The villagers reported that after the incident, the chemical plant's security blocked the only road leading into the village, preventing access. Many residents expressed frustration, saying this was not the first time they had been poisoned by the plant.
Wang Yongli, a villager, shared that his mother had been poisoned twice already. Despite receiving intravenous treatment, her face was still swollen. Another resident, Zhou Xuefei, recalled a tragic event in 2010 when a chemical explosion killed all seven members of his family. Since then, he claims, the plant has continued to release harmful substances secretly.
Xu Qijun, lying in the hospital bed, said the experience left him feeling deeply hurt. Not only did they suffer from the poisoning, but no one from the factory came to check on them or offer any support.
Authorities are currently investigating the incident, and experts have urged people working around toxic environments to wear proper protective gear and be prepared for emergencies.
This story highlights the ongoing struggle of communities living near industrial sites and the urgent need for better safety measures and accountability.
Hubei Chengze Diamod Products Co., Ltd. , https://www.ryomaltools.com