Pune: Kerosene Gas Leak from Closed Water Purification Unit; 24 People Fall Ill

A kerosene gas leak occurred today (June 5, 2024) from an old and closed water purification unit in the Kothrud area of Pune, affecting 24 people in the surrounding area. According to local residents, the unit had been non-operational and closed for several years. At around 12:30 pm today, some locals informed the authorities about the foul smell and breathing difficulties they were experiencing. Police and civil defense teams immediately rushed to the spot and attempted to bring the situation under control. After detecting that the leak was of kerosene gas, the teams quickly evacuated the surrounding area. As a result, around 50 households in the area were forced to leave their homes and relocate to safer places. According to local health officials, the 24 people hospitalized are mostly suffering from respiratory problems and vomiting-headaches. Meanwhile, an investigation is underway to determine why the unit was closed, and local municipal officials and environmental experts will conduct an inspection. There are concerns that the soil and water in the surrounding area may have been contaminated. Environmental experts say there is a possibility of damage to the soil and water sources due to the old chemical storage and leak. The local administration is conducting air quality tests in the surrounding area to determine the extent of the leak and its impact. Additionally, a program has been initiated to provide medical aid and relief to the affected people. The incident has caused panic among the public, and there are growing demands for a review of the safe management of old and closed industrial units.