A major leak of hazardous oleum gas has occurred at a chemical unit in Palghar district in Maharashtra recently. Over 2,600 people, including 1,600 school students, were evacuated by the authorities. Many people are now complaining of minor irritation in their eyes due to the gas. Here are all the latest updates regarding the incident.
Gas Leak Reported In Palghar District Of Maharashtra
The hazardous oleum gas leak occurred at a chemical factory in Maharashtra on March 2, around 2 pm. According to a report by Times Now, the chemical unit is operated by Bhageria Industries Ltd in the Boisar MIDC area on the outskirts of Mumbai. Authorities were successful in evacuating more than 2,600 people, including 1,600 schoolchildren. Fortunately, everyone is safe, but three people have reported minor irritation in their eyes.
Reportedly, strong, thick white fumes spread quickly after the gas leak. The fumes covered nearby localities within a five-kilometre radius. It created panic among residents and workers. Oleum is also known as fuming sulphuric acid. It is a highly corrosive industrial chemical that is toxic. Exposure to it can lead to eye irritation, throat infection and breathing difficulties.
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Authorities Activate Disaster Response
According to Times Now, authorities acted swiftly and activated the district disaster management plan to bring the situation under control. Palghar District Collector Indu Rani Jakhar also oversaw the situation. The leakage apparently occurred from a 2,500-litre capacity oleum day tank. Due to strong winds, the smoke from the gas leak spread quickly to nearby areas.
Response teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) and the local fire brigade were also present at the site. Authorities initially struggled to find the exact location due to thick smoke. The team later identified the gas leak source and entered the premises using self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Sandbags were placed around the leaking tank by authorities to control the fumes.
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People who experienced eye irritation were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. However, there are no reports of serious injuries. Residents are urged not to panic, remain indoors and follow all official instructions.
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