MPCB orders shutdown of Ambernath Chemical factory after gas leak incident | WATCH

On Friday, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) issued a closure notice to Nikakem Products, a chemical factory in Ambernath, following a significant gas leak that occurred the previous night. The incident resulted in severe eye irritation, breathing difficulties, and reduced visibility as a dense haze enveloped the area. Residents of Morivli village, near the MIDC industrial zone, reported symptoms including vomiting and panic attacks due to the smog-like conditions.

Details of the incident

The gas leak began around 11:00 PM and rapidly spread across a one-kilometre radius by 11:30 PM. Fortunately, the situation was controlled within two hours, and no injuries or hospitalizations were reported. The factory, known for producing hazardous chemicals such as hydrochloric acid, phosphorus trichloride, and phosphorus pentoxide, had its operations halted at 7:00 PM. However, it was found to be storing excessive quantities of acid in drums without adequate safety measures. Rainwater, leaking through the roof, reacted with the stored acid, resulting in the harmful fumes.

🚨 Maharashtra: Gas leak at a chemical factory in Ambarnath spreads across the city. Residents face reduced visibility, itchy eyes, and throat irritation. Emergency teams are on-site, and authorities urge people to stay indoors. Investigation into the cause is ongoing. pic.twitter.com/t5ZasUWElE

— BigBreakingWire (@BigBreakingWire) September 12, 2024

Investigation and response

Rajendra Rajput, a senior official from the MPCB’s Kalyan region, confirmed that the factory’s improper storage practices led to the chemical reaction. A gas detection system has been set up at the site to evaluate the extent of the leak and monitor air quality. The Ambernath police, alerted at 11:00 PM, identified the source of the smoke as Nikakem Products. Senior Police Inspector Jagannath Kalaskar noted that the smoke originated from a reaction involving two partially cut yellow drums. The fire brigade managed to extinguish the chemical process, and police are keeping a close watch to prevent further incidents.

Community reactions

Local residents voiced their dissatisfaction with the recurrent issues of chemical leaks in the area. Jayesh Nair, a Morivli resident, described the night as terrifying, with visibility so poor he couldn’t see outside his window. He experienced vomiting and eye irritation, with many others facing similar problems. Nair criticized the MPCB for its inadequate monitoring, stating that chemical leaks are frequent but often overlooked. Another resident, Satish Waghmare, shared his experience of not being able to see a nearby building gate and enduring prolonged eye irritation and coughing throughout the night.