CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar — A chlorine leak in the Catbalogan Water District system has caused widespread panic and forced the evacuation of residents in Barangay 4 at Pier Dos.
The leak, which happened in one of the containers that had been storing the chemical for 20 years, has resulted in harm to the residents and the environment. Many experienced symptoms such as headaches, chest and throat pain, coughing, and overall body weakness.
Some who were exposed to the fumes have even been unable to go to work. As a result, others were terminated from employment.
They Admitted
Engr. Miguel Macaspag, the water district's general manager, admitted the chlorine leak but said that they were not aware that the container beside the guardhouse still contains chlorine and as time passed, it rusted and, possibly, caused the leak.
Water district management reassured the public that they are doing measures with the Department of Environmental of Natural Resources (DENR) to dispose the chlorine including the remaining two containers. However, many are still anxious of the long-term effect of the leak.
All Affected
According to the guard, Rommel Sanan, who works in the water district, a cat that lives in the area was also affected. The feline was seen vomiting and they deemed it had a slim chance of survival. After a few days, the cat recovered.
In addition to the harm to humans and animals, a number of trees in the vicinity of the containers that leaked have wilted and no longer show life. Trees take time to die so this leak must have been for sometime.
The incident has also raised concerns about the safety of the water supply in the area, as well as the further and potential environmental impact of the leak.
Local authorities have urged residents to remain calm and follow the instructions of emergency responders as inhaling chlorine gas can irritate the lungs and airways.
Long-term exposure to chlorine has been linked to serious health problems, including cancer and respiratory diseases.
They have also advised people to stay away from the affected area until it is deemed safe to return.
The incident is a reminder of the importance of proper storage and handling of chemicals, as well as the need for regular maintenance and inspections of storage facilities to mitigate these risks.
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