Dozens ill after toxic waste spill in Fujian

A chemical spill that dumped nearly seven tonnes of toxic waste in the seas off Fujian province in east China has left 52 people ill, local authorities said on Thursday.The incident happened in the early hours of Sunday when a tube connecting a transport vessel to the wharf broke, spilling 6.9 tonnes of C9 aromatics into the sea.

A tube connecting a transport vessel to the wharf broke, spilling 6.9 tonnes of C9 aromatics into the sea in Fujian province on November 4, 2018. [Photo: Chinanews.com]

A product of refining crude oil, C9 is typically used to produce adhesives, printing ink and paint, and is toxic to humans.

While the local environment bureau said the waters had been cleaned up by Monday afternoon, a strong smell lingers and local fisherman have complained of dying fishes.

Those affected live near the coast and had come into contact with C9, reporting a variety of symptoms ranging from dizziness, nausea, vomiting and breathing difficulties, the Quangang district government said in a statement.

Ten people are still in hospital for treatment, including one who contracted pneumonia after falling into the affected waters, the government said.