Vasai Gas Leak Tragedy Prompts High-Level Probe
The Vasai Virar City Municipal Corporation (VVCMC) has constituted a special inquiry committee to investigate the serious lapses that led to a deadly chlorine gas leak in Vasai West last week. The incident resulted in the death of a 59-year-old man and the hospitalization of 18 individuals.
Committee to Investigate Systemic Failures
The inquiry panel is headed by Dr. Dipak Sawant, the Additional Municipal Commissioner. Other key members include City Engineer Pradeep Pachange, Medical Officer of Health Dr. Bhakti Choudhary, an Assistant Municipal Commissioner, and an industry expert. This team has been tasked with a thorough investigation into the entire episode, focusing on the circumstances of the leak and the mysterious presence of the chlorine cylinder.
The VVCMC confirmed that the leak occurred on November 25 from a chlorine gas cylinder stored at the Diwanman water tank premises. Shockingly, sources reveal there is no official record or data for this cylinder or others like it within the corporation's inventory. These cylinders reportedly became part of the VVCMC's assets by default when the municipal corporation was formed in July 2009, following the merger of previous municipal councils and villages.
How the Fatal Accident Unfolded
According to the civic body's account, the accident happened while six workers, including five labourers and one valveman, were carrying out repairs on the water tank's outlet. During the work, the chlorine cylinder was accidentally pushed, causing it to fall. The impact broke the cylinder's valve, leading to a rapid and dangerous gas leak.
The gas quickly affected those nearby. Eighteen people, including six VVCMC staff members, were rushed to various hospitals in Vasai after experiencing severe symptoms like vomiting and dizziness. Tragically, 59-year-old Dev Pardiwala succumbed to the effects of the gas inhalation.
Legal Status and Next Steps
As of now, no First Information Report (FIR) has been registered in connection with the incident. Officials at the Manikpur police station stated they have only filed an Accidental Death Report (ADR) concerning Pardiwala's death. The police have formally written to the VVCMC, seeking detailed information about the incident, and will decide on further legal action based on the response.
Attempts to reach the inquiry committee head, Dr. Dipak Sawant, for comments were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to calls or messages. The formation of the committee underscores the gravity of the incident and the pressing need to address glaring safety and inventory management failures within the civic system to prevent such tragedies in the future.
