Panic strikes cargo unit after leak

A suspected radioactive material leak at the IGI Airport in Delhi cargo unit sparked panic and sent the staff into a tizzy on Friday. Later, the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) confirmed that there was no leak of any radioactive substance. Meanwhile, the incident affected the Celebi cargo terminal import operation for hours.

“I saw fire tenders on the site and all of my colleagues were standing outside the cargo unit. We were not allow to enter the cargo premise till 5 pm,” said a cargo unit worker on condition of anonymity.

According to the sources, three workers who handled the consignment, were identified as RK Pandey, Randhir, and Ramakant. Among them, two were rushed to hospital after they reported itching in their eyes. Later they were discharged. 

“We were clueless about what was going on and were worried about three of our colleagues who reportedly came in contact of the suspected object. But now they are fine and have resumed work again,” said the unit worker.

“Following the incident, all operations at the cargo terminal of the Delhi airport were suspended. However, the situation was brought under control soon. Airport cargo staff were directed to stay away from the area,” said an airport official.

According to sources, the leak originated in four of the 10 packets containing suspected radioactive material that came from Istanbul. Some liquid spilled over the sanitized containers. 

The packets contained material meant for a hospital to treat cancer patients, with labels that read: “Radioactive tool class- IV CN 2915-1-1B1 type liquid sodium -2.”

“Passenger movement at Terminal 3 was not affected,” confirmed a spokesperson from DIAL.