GasLeak – Ammonia Cylinder Leak Contained in Raoji Bazaar Area
GasLeak – A potentially hazardous gas leak in the Raoji Bazaar Police Station area was brought under control on Thursday after swift action by emergency services prevented the situation from escalating.
The incident occurred when an ammonia-filled cylinder began leaking in the vicinity of Raoji Bazaar. The strong, pungent odor quickly spread through the surrounding area, prompting concern among local residents and authorities. Fire brigade personnel responded immediately after receiving information about the leak.
Fire Brigade Acts Swiftly to Contain Leak
According to Sub Inspector Santosh Kumar Dubey of the fire department, the leaking cylinder was found to have been cut in the middle, making it impossible to shut the valve and stop the gas flow through conventional means. Firefighters began spraying water continuously over the cylinder to cool it down and minimize the spread of ammonia gas.
To further contain the leak, the team placed the cylinder inside a large drum filled with water and covered it with a tarpaulin sheet. This method helped prevent the gas from dispersing into the surrounding air.
Dubey confirmed that although some fire brigade staff experienced coughing and minor breathing discomfort during the operation, no serious injuries were reported among emergency responders. He emphasized that the situation is now fully under control and poses no ongoing threat to the public.
Cylinder Had Structural Damage
Fire Officer Sudhir Bariya explained that the cylinder had a visible hole in its midsection, which allowed ammonia gas to escape rapidly. When water was sprayed directly onto the cylinder, the gas mixed with the water, reducing its impact in the open environment.
The decision to submerge the damaged cylinder in a water-filled drum proved effective in limiting further leakage. Bariya noted that two members of the fire brigade experienced temporary breathing difficulties during the process but recovered without requiring major medical intervention.
Authorities stated that the area was secured while containment efforts were underway to ensure public safety.
Scrap Shop Owner to Face Legal Action
Police officials revealed that the incident stemmed from an attempt to cut open the cylinder for resale. Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 4) Dishesh Agarwal stated that the cylinder had been brought to a scrap shop owned by a man identified as Shahzad.
According to Agarwal, Shahzad was attempting to dismantle the cylinder when a suspected gas leak occurred, releasing a strong odor into the surrounding neighborhood. Several residents reported breathing discomfort due to the pungent fumes.
Emergency services transported the cylinder to an open area to manage the leak more safely. Water was continuously poured over it until the gas emission was contained.
Authorities have confirmed that a criminal case will be registered against the scrap dealer for negligence and unsafe handling of hazardous material.
Impact on Residents and Ongoing Assessment
Local residents in the vicinity reported irritation and breathing difficulty during the leak. A woman in her fifties, who has a pre-existing heart condition, was taken to a hospital as a precautionary measure. Officials said she is currently stable.
The Industrial Health and Safety Department has been informed and will conduct further examination to formally confirm the type and concentration of gas involved. While officials suspect the gas to be ammonia based on initial findings, laboratory confirmation is awaited.
Police and civic authorities have reassured residents that there is no remaining risk in the area. Normal conditions have been restored, and monitoring continues to ensure safety compliance.
The incident highlights the risks associated with improper handling of industrial cylinders and the importance of following safety protocols when dealing with potentially hazardous materials.