More than 40 people fell ill after a chlorine gas leak at a water treatment plant in Nagpur's Godhni area early Monday, triggering an emergency response by police, fire officials and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). Several affected residents reported coughing and breathing difficulties after the gas spread into nearby residential areas. 

The leak was reported around 1 am at the Godhni Municipal Council Water Treatment Plant operated by the Maharashtra Jeevan Pradhikaran. According to reports, chlorine escaped from a cylinder with a capacity of around 900 kg. Local police and administrative officials alerted residents in the surrounding settlements and advised them to move to safer locations. Several people were taken to Sparsh Hospital in Zingabai Takli and Mayo Hospital for treatment. Reports said the affected group included plant workers as well as local residents, while some patients required intensive care. 

Emergency teams reach site

The Nagpur Municipal Corporation's fire department sent two water tenders and personnel equipped with breathing apparatus after receiving information about the leak. Teams from Orange City Water and the NDRF also joined the response. NDRF personnel entered the affected plant wearing protective equipment as efforts were made to contain and neutralise the leaking chlorine. 

Authorities imposed precautionary restrictions around the plant as the gas spread through the nearby locality. Residents were advised to remain away from the affected area, with reports indicating a 200-metre safety perimeter around the facility during the initial response. Officials said chlorine concentration in the surrounding area was gradually declining and the situation was coming under control.

Investigation into leak

The exact cause of the chlorine leak has not yet been established. Police have begun an inquiry into the incident. The affected facility and the handling of the chlorine cylinder are likely to remain under scrutiny as authorities assess how the leak occurred and whether additional safety measures are required. 

The incident comes as emergency agencies continue to monitor the affected locality and assist residents and those undergoing treatment. The immediate priority remains ensuring that the remaining gas does not pose a further risk and that people exposed to the leak receive medical attention. Further details on the condition of those hospitalised and the cause of the leak are expected as officials complete their assessment.