Oleum Gas Leak in Palghar Triggers Large-Scale Evacuation

A major leak of hazardous oleum gas at a chemical manufacturing unit in Maharashtra’s Palghar district triggered panic and prompted authorities to evacuate more than 2,600 people as a precautionary measure. The incident occurred at a unit of Bhageria Industries Ltd located in the Boisar MIDC industrial area on the outskirts of Mumbai. A dense cloud of white fumes spread rapidly across surrounding areas due to strong winds, affecting locations within a five-kilometre radius and raising concerns over public safety.

Incident and Immediate Response

The gas leak occurred around 2 pm from a 2,500-litre capacity oleum day tank within the facility. Oleum, also known as fuming sulphuric acid, is a highly corrosive industrial chemical used in several manufacturing processes. The sudden release created thick fumes that spread quickly across nearby industrial and residential areas, forcing authorities to activate emergency response protocols under the district disaster management plan.

Mass Evacuation in Boisar Industrial Area

District authorities ordered the evacuation of nearly 1,600 students from Tarapur Vidyamandir school located close to the affected zone. Additionally, more than 1,000 workers from Bhageria Industries and nearby industrial units were shifted to safer locations. Officials reported that the precautionary evacuation was necessary due to the rapid spread of fumes caused by wind direction and the potential health risks associated with exposure to the chemical.

Emergency Teams Contain the Leak

Specialised teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), and the Fire Brigade were deployed to manage the situation. Initial rescue operations faced difficulties due to the high concentration of fumes, which limited visibility and access to the source of the leak. Equipped with self-contained breathing apparatus, response teams eventually reached the site and contained the leakage by placing sandbags around the affected tank to suppress the fumes.

Important Facts for Exams

• Oleum, or fuming sulphuric acid, is a solution of sulphur trioxide dissolved in concentrated sulphuric acid.
• The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is India’s specialised force for disaster management and emergency response.
• The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) provides scientific and technical support in handling hazardous chemical incidents.
• MIDC (Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation) develops industrial zones and infrastructure across Maharashtra.

Health Impact and Official Advisory

Authorities reported that three individuals experienced minor eye irritation due to exposure to the fumes and were given medical treatment. Palghar District Collector Indu Rani Jakhar confirmed that the situation was being closely monitored in coordination with multiple agencies. Residents were advised to remain indoors, avoid panic, and follow official instructions while the administration worked to ensure public safety and control the incident.