Palghar Gas Leak: Oleum Leakage at Bhageria Chemicals Spreads Panic Across Tarapur MIDC

A major gas leak was reported on Tuesday afternoon at Bhageria Chemicals (formerly known as Zenith Chemicals) located in the D-Zone area of the Tarapur MIDC industrial estate. The incident involved the leakage of Oleum gas, triggering widespread panic across the surrounding locality. The impact of the toxic fumes was felt up to a distance of nearly one and a half kilometres from the site. Several factory workers and residents in nearby areas complained of breathing difficulties and severe irritation in their eyes. The sudden spread of the hazardous gas created an alarming situation in the industrial belt and adjoining residential pockets.

Palghar, Maharashtra: A Sulfur Trioxide (SO₃) gas leak at Bhagaria Chemical Company, Tarapur MIDC, Palghar caused panic. People within 3–4 km faced eye irritation, coughing, and breathing issues.

SP Yatish Deshmukh says, "...The fire brigade, district administration, and police… pic.twitter.com/pW8OV8L5Cs

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According to preliminary information, the leakage began around 2 pm from a storage tank or connected system containing Oleum at the chemical plant. Oleum is an extremely dangerous substance and, upon contact with air, it reacts to form sulphur dioxide and other sulphur oxides. As a result, thick fumes were seen spreading rapidly in and around the premises. The presence of these chemical vapours significantly reduced air quality in the vicinity, leading to immediate health concerns. Workers present at the facility reportedly rushed out of the area as the pungent and suffocating smell intensified within minutes.

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At the time of the incident, winds were blowing from west to east, which accelerated the spread of the poisonous gas. Due to the wind direction and speed, the fumes travelled quickly across the industrial estate and towards nearby residential settlements. Employees working in neighbouring factories were also affected, while people living close to the industrial zone experienced discomfort. The intensity of the gas was noticeable within a radius of approximately 1.5 to 2 kilometres. The situation caused anxiety among locals, many of whom stepped out of their homes in confusion before being advised to take precautionary measures.

The health impact of the gas exposure has been significant. Many individuals reported redness in the eyes accompanied by a burning sensation. Others complained of throat irritation, dryness, and difficulty while breathing. Symptoms such as nausea and a burning feeling in the chest were also reported by several affected persons. Soon after the authorities were alerted, teams from the local disaster management cell and the fire brigade reached the spot and initiated emergency measures to contain the leak. As a safety step, operations in nearby companies were temporarily halted, and residents were advised to remain indoors, keep windows shut, and cover their nose and mouth with a wet cloth if breathing discomfort occurs.