A major leak of hazardous oleum gas at a chemical factory in Boisar MIDC, Palghar district, Maharashtra, triggered the evacuation of more than 2,600 people, including around 1,600 school students. The incident caused a dense cloud of white fumes to spread across an estimated five-kilometre radius, creating panic in the industrial area and nearby settlements. Three persons reported minor eye irritation and received medical attention.
Incident and Immediate Impact
The leak occurred around 2 pm at the Bhageria Industries Ltd unit on Mumbai’s outskirts. The gas escaped from a 2,500-litre oleum day tank. Strong wind conditions helped the fumes spread rapidly. As a precaution, authorities evacuated workers from the factory and surrounding units, along with students from Tarapur Vidyamandir.
Emergency Response Measures
The district administration activated its disaster management plan immediately. Teams from the National Disaster Response Force, the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, and the Fire Brigade were deployed. Due to heavy fumes, responders initially faced difficulty in locating the exact source of the leak. Chemical experts and NDRF personnel later entered the site using self-contained breathing apparatus.
Containment and Public Safety
To reduce the spread of fumes, sandbags were placed around the leaking tank. Officials advised residents to remain indoors and avoid panic. The district police and administration continued monitoring the situation closely. The cause of the leak was not immediately known, and technical assessment of the unit remained underway.
Oleum Gas and Industrial Safety
Oleum, also known as fuming sulphuric acid, is highly corrosive and dangerous to human health. Exposure can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. The incident marks the need for strict industrial safety systems, emergency preparedness, and rapid evacuation protocols in chemical zones.
Last Modified: April 28, 2026