Chemical Gas Leak in SW China: Eyewitnesses Tell Their Stories

A gas leak occurred in the Wutongqiao district of Leshan, Sichuan, and the entire district was enveloped in thick fog on Aug. 18, 2020. Provided by interviewee

Leaking gas from a chemical plant in Wutongqiao district of Leshan city, Sichuan Province, southwestern China, enveloped the entire district in thick fog, filling the air with a pungent odor. Panicked residents evacuated in a hurry on the morning of Aug. 18.

Local traffic was paralyzed as people fled the city, according to residents who described the evacuation to The Epoch Times. Despite many car crashes, drivers continuously tried to get out of town. Some shops were abandoned as the owners left in a hurry.

Shop Owner: The Unforgettable Escape

A shop owner in Wutongqiao district, who wished to remain anonymous, told The Epoch Times that the smell was particularly strong on the morning of Aug. 18. “At around 7 a.m., I had a hard time breathing and was very uncomfortable. The odor was attacking us. I could smell it even with a mask on. It was very heavy.”