A chlorine gas leak at a water treatment plant in Godhani, Nagpur district, triggered panic among residents during the early hours of Monday, August 24.

The incident reportedly occurred at a Maharashtra Jeevan Pradhikaran water treatment facility, where chlorine was being stored for water purification.

According to officials, the leak originated from a 900-kg chlorine gas cylinder at the plant. The toxic gas spread into nearby residential areas, leaving several residents complaining of coughing, breathing difficulties and irritation.

As the gas spread, residents reportedly rushed out of their homes in panic.

Emergency response teams, including the NDRF, Nagpur Municipal Corporation fire emergency teams and health officials, reached the area and began containment and rescue operations. Police also evacuated people from the affected zone as a precaution.

At least 56 people, including four minors, were hospitalised following the leak. Officials said eight patients were shifted to intensive care units, while 11 people were later discharged after treatment.

Health teams were deployed in the affected locality to conduct medical examinations and door-to-door surveys. Residents reported symptoms including watery eyes and coughing.


Authorities estimated that the affected area covered roughly 300 metres, involving around 172 houses and an estimated population of 684 people.

Officials said the leaking cylinder was eventually submerged in water and the immediate hazard was brought under control. Medical teams continued monitoring residents in the area after the incident.

The incident has also raised questions about safety and storage practices at the facility. Nagpur district authorities have ordered a technical investigation into the leak, with concerns raised over the storage of the large chlorine cylinder.

Reports have also raised questions about the plant's regulatory safety oversight.

Police are awaiting reports from the Maharashtra Jeevan Pradhikaran and an expert committee before deciding on further legal action. Intelligence agencies have also begun inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The chlorine leak has highlighted serious concerns over the handling and storage of hazardous chemicals at water-treatment facilities located close to residential areas.

Authorities are expected to investigate the cause of the leak and determine responsibility while reviewing safety measures to prevent a similar incident in the future.