Around 3,000 LPG cylinders, both filled and empty, from the HPCL Patalganga LPG bottling plant in Chawane, Panvel, were swept into the Patalganga river following torrential rain in Raigad district, Maharashtra. The incident occurred on July 8, 2026, as heavy downpours inundated the region, causing the river to swell and overflow.
District Collector Issues Warning
Raigad District Collector Kishan Jawale confirmed the development and issued an urgent appeal to citizens. In a statement on social media, he warned residents not to keep any such cylinders they might find or attempt to use them. The cylinders, numbering approximately 3,000, include both filled and empty units, posing potential safety hazards if mishandled.
"Citizens have been warned not to keep such cylinders with them or try to use them if found," the collector's office stated. The advisory emphasizes the risk of gas leaks or explosions, especially if cylinders are damaged or improperly handled.
Impact and Response
The flooding has disrupted normal life in Raigad, with several low-lying areas submerged. Local authorities are coordinating with disaster management teams to recover the cylinders and assess damage to the HPCL plant. The exact number of cylinders still missing is being evaluated, but the initial estimate stands at 3,000.
Efforts are underway to trace and safely retrieve the cylinders along the riverbanks. Residents have been urged to report any sightings to local authorities immediately. The incident highlights the vulnerability of industrial infrastructure to extreme weather events, which have become more frequent in the region due to climate change.
Historical Context
Raigad, located in the Konkan region, often experiences heavy monsoon rainfall. However, the intensity this year has been exceptional, leading to widespread flooding and landslides. In 2025, similar incidents occurred in other parts of Maharashtra, raising concerns about disaster preparedness and industrial safety protocols.
The HPCL plant is a key supplier of LPG for domestic and commercial use in the region. The loss of cylinders may cause temporary shortages, but authorities assure that alternative arrangements are being made to maintain supply.
