Daijiworld Media Network - Nagpur

Nagpur, Aug 24: A chlorine gas leak at a water filtration plant in the Godhni Gram Panchayat area of Nagpur triggered panic early Monday, prompting authorities to evacuate residents within a 200-metre radius and launch a major rescue operation.

The gas leak reportedly occurred at the water filter plant in Godhni around midnight. Several residents complained of breathing difficulties after being exposed to the chlorine gas.

More than 40 people have so far been admitted to different hospitals for treatment, while reports indicated that the number of hospitalised persons could be above 60.

Following the incident, residents of Godhni village were moved to safer locations as a precautionary measure. Authorities restricted access to the affected area to prevent further exposure.

The Nagpur Municipal Corporation's fire brigade rushed to the spot after receiving information about the leak and began efforts to bring the situation under control. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) was subsequently deployed and joined the rescue and containment operation.

Mankapur senior police inspector Haresh Kalsekar said the area within 200 metres of the leak had been evacuated and more than 40 local residents had been admitted to different hospitals.

“No one will be allowed to enter the area until 11 am. The NDRF operation is still underway,” Kalsekar said.

Local residents also came forward to help one another following the incident.

Authorities are continuing efforts to contain the chlorine leak and ensure the safety of people in the surrounding area. The exact cause of the gas leak is yet to be established.