Gas Tanker Overturns on UP Highway, Traffic Halted Amid Leakage Fears
Traffic movement on the Mathura-Kasganj-Bareilly highway in Uttar Pradesh was brought to a complete standstill on Monday after an 18-tonne gas-laden capsule tanker overturned near Nagla Dukariya in Kasganj. The incident triggered immediate fears of a potential gas leak, prompting authorities to implement swift safety measures to prevent any untoward incidents.
Accident Details and Immediate Response
The tanker, which was en route from Gujarat to Bareilly, allegedly went out of control due to the poor condition of the road and overturned on the highway. This led authorities to halt vehicular movement on both carriageways as a precautionary measure to ensure public safety. Driver Ravi Kumar, who miraculously escaped unhurt, reported that the accident occurred after the heavy vehicle lost balance because of a damaged highway stretch and loose soil on the roadside.
Sub-Divisional Magistrate Sanjeev Singh, along with police personnel and fire brigade teams, rushed to the spot soon after receiving information about the incident. Two fire tenders were deployed as part of the initial safety protocols to monitor the situation closely and respond to any emergencies.
Safety Measures and Ongoing Efforts
Authorities quickly diverted traffic and sealed the area around the overturned tanker to minimize risks. Local residents were advised to maintain a safe distance from the site to avoid any potential hazards. Technical experts from the concerned department have been called to the scene to assess the situation thoroughly and examine the gas tanker for any signs of leakage.
While driver Ravi Kumar has indicated the possibility of a minor leak, officials have stated that this is yet to be confirmed by the experts. Fire officer R K Sharma emphasized that teams are closely monitoring the situation, and efforts are underway to safely set the tanker upright and restore normal traffic flow on the highway as soon as possible.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about road safety and infrastructure maintenance in the region, with the damaged highway stretch being cited as a key factor in the accident. The response from emergency services has been prompt, aiming to mitigate risks and ensure the well-being of the public amidst the disruption.
