Ammonia leakage at IFFCO unit

Ammonia is a gaseous compound composed of nitrogen and 3 hydrogen atoms. It is an important raw material for production of agricultural fertilizers like ammonium nitrate, a source of nitrogen for crops. It is stored either as a gas under low temperatures or as a liquid at high pressures. Even in moderate concentrations, it can cause ill effects like irritations to eyes, nose, throat and skin. Recently, a major ammonia gas leakage accident occurred at the IFFCO unit in Prayagraj.