Nagpur: There was panic in the surrounding area after chlorine gas leaked from a water treatment plant in Nagpur, Maharashtra early Monday morning. The incident took place at around 1 am at the plant located in Godhani village, where a 900 kg capacity chlorine gas cylinder started leaking. The gas reached the surrounding residential areas, after which many people complained of difficulty in breathing and cough. Some people were taken to hospital for treatment.
Why was there chaos as soon as chlorine gas spread?
After the gas leakage started, panic spread among the people living nearby. Many people came out of their homes in search of safe places. According to the Municipal Corporation, many people had trouble breathing due to exposure to the gas and were rushed to the hospital. Seeing the situation, the police and administration decided to immediately evacuate the area.
Why were people living within a radius of 200 meters removed?
As a precautionary measure, Mankapur police evacuated people living within a radius of 200 meters around the plant to safe places. The movement of people was also stopped by surrounding the affected area. Police appealed to people not to pay attention to rumors and follow the instructions of the administration.
Who reached the spot to stop the gas leak?
As soon as information about the incident was received, the fire team of the municipal corporation reached the spot. Along with firemen, two water tenders and breathing apparatus were also sent to the spot. Orange City Water Pvt Ltd team involved in drinking water supply in Nagpur and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel were also deployed in relief and rescue operations.
When did the gas leak come under control?
According to the Municipal Corporation, the gas leak was stopped at around 5:30 am. After this, the team of NDRF, fire brigade and OCW placed the chlorine cylinder in a tank containing a mixture of water and caustic soda. Its purpose was to control the gas remaining in the cylinder.
How many people were taken to hospital?
After the gas spread, many people themselves went to the hospital, while some people were taken to the hospital with the help of the police. According to officials, complaints like cough and difficulty in breathing were reported among the affected people. Available information does not indicate the exact number of people admitted to hospital.
Is there still danger in the area?
The administration has cordoned off the leak area and people have been asked to stay away from the spot. The situation is being monitored after the leak has been stopped. The police have appealed to the people not to believe any kind of rumor and only believe the information released by the administration.
