Ammonia leak at Kokand chemical plant prompts evacuation

The National Guard Department of Fergana region reported an emergency incident involving a chemical leak at a facility in Kokand.

According to the administration of Indorama Kokand Fertilizers & Chemicals, the incident happened while liquid ammonia was being transferred from a rail tank car to a special storage container. A hose rupture occurred during the process, causing approximately 10 percent of the ammonia to leak within the plant’s premises.

In response, military personnel from the National Guard, along with police and Emergency Ministry officials, arrived at the scene.

All plant employees and civilians in the area were urgently evacuated. Around ten people sought medical assistance.

"At present, access roads to the facility have been closed, and the safety of the population has been ensured. All forces and technical equipment have been deployed to eliminate the emergency. The situation is under the control of law enforcement. Citizens are urged to remain calm and avoid panic," the statement read.

According to the Ministry of Emergency Situations, the incident occurred at 8:30 PM. A small leak was observed as ammonia was being transferred from a railway tank to an on-site storage tank.

Emergency crews were immediately dispatched to the scene, and the consequences of the incident were promptly mitigated.