By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Pupils from Richards Bay High School have been rushed to hospital after a suspected gas leak at the Foskor plant in northern KwaZulu-Natal on Monday.
Emergency services were called to the school earlier this morning (Monday) after pupils were overcome by the fumes, causing them to battle to breathe.
According to Shawn Herbst of Netcare 911, many pupils were affected.
“Multiple children have been transported to hospital. Many of them have been vomiting, feeling dizzy and collapsing. A full head count will be done as soon as things have calmed down.”
Herbst said residents reported smelling gas on Saturday night.
The Richards Bay Clean Air Association (RBCAA) said it is investigating the source of the problem, but suspects a gas leak at Foskor based on SO2 exceedances recorded at the RBCAA Arboretum station.
“We have made contact with Foskor and are awaiting feedback,” said Sandy Camminga from RBCAA.
The plant produces sulphuric acid, phosphoric acid and granular fertiliser.
“RBCAA has notified the relevant authorities, and an update will be provided as soon as there is more information.”
Camminga urges anyone affected to log a complaint on 083 5152384, and to include your name, location, the date, time, and description of the incident/odour, as well as symptoms.
Meanwhile the City of uMhlathuze said it has noted the issue, and the municipality will make a statement in due course.
Henning de Wet, a local councillor in the region, was able to confirm that ‘dozens of children’ required urgent medical attention as a result of the gas leak.
The KZN Department of Education said its district director was currently at the school to gather more information and for intervention.