Kolkata, May 24 (Inditop) Three contract labourers were killed in an accident at a process vehicle in the Haldia Petrochemicals Limited plant in West Bengal Sunday, an official said.

“Three people died in the accident. But I have no more details. I understand the company is conducting an investigation,” East Midnapore district Magistrate D. Choten Lama told Inditop on telephone.

A company statement said the three labourers – employed by a contractors’ firm – entered into the process vehicle. “With deep regret HPL reports an unfortunate accident at its plant in Haldia, which has claimed three valuable lives.”

The plant in East Midnapore district has been shut down since May 8 for maintenance purposes.

The families of the victims alleged that the tragedy occurred due to gas emission in the plant. But the company denied it.

District CPI-M leader and former MP Lakshman Seth has demanded compensation of Rs.500,000 for the families of each victim.