24 hospitalised after chlorine gas leak at defunct water plant in Pune’s Kondhwa

At least 24 people, including 22 residents and two fire personnel, were hospitalised after a chlorine gas leak in Pune’s Kondhwa area in the early hours of Thursday. The incident occurred around 1 am in the Gangadham locality, where gas reportedly leaked from an abandoned chlorine tank stored at a defunct water purification plant godown, triggering panic among residents in the vicinity.

According to fire officials, the gas spread quickly across the surrounding area, causing several residents to complain of breathlessness. Emergency teams were immediately dispatched to the site after receiving distress calls, and precautionary evacuation measures were carried out to move people away from the affected zone.

During the rescue and containment operation, both residents and fire personnel exposed to the gas experienced respiratory discomfort and were rushed to the hospital for treatment. Authorities confirmed that 22 local residents along with two firefighters were admitted after showing symptoms linked to chlorine exposure.

Fire brigade teams managed to control the situation by sealing the leaking tank using safety equipment, preventing further spread of the hazardous gas. Officials indicated that the leak may have originated from a chlorine tank that was left unattended even after the water purification facility had been dismantled.

All those affected are currently reported to be out of danger and remain under medical observation. Authorities continue to monitor the situation while ensuring that the area is safe and free from any residual gas threat.