Second fisherman dies from toxic gas exposure aboard Kerala vessel

A fisherman has died from exposure to toxic gas aboard the fishing boat Tesla in Kozhikode, marking the second fatality in the incident. The worker's death follows an earlier casualty among the vessel's crew, raising fresh concerns about workplace safety protocols in the fishing industry along Kerala's coast.

The incident has drawn attention to the hazardous conditions faced by fishing crews, particularly regarding the handling and storage of materials that emit toxic fumes. Authorities have initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding both deaths to determine the source of the gas exposure and whether adequate safety measures were in place.

The Tesla, engaged in commercial fishing operations, had crew members on board when the toxic gas exposure occurred. Officials are examining whether the incident resulted from equipment malfunction, improper storage of hazardous materials, or inadequate ventilation systems within the vessel.

The deaths have prompted calls for stricter enforcement of safety regulations in the fishing sector. Maritime safety experts and labor organizations have reiterated the need for comprehensive training programs, proper equipment maintenance, and emergency response protocols aboard fishing vessels operating in Kerala's territorial waters.