After 32 tense hours of closure, the Mumbai-Pune Expressway is back in action following a dramatic gas tanker accident that paralyzed one of India’s busiest corridors. The Mumbai-bound lane near Adoshi Tunnel, shut since Saturday evening, reopened early Tuesday, easing the plight of stranded motorists.
According to Raigad Highway Police, the propylene gas leak from the overturned tanker at km 41 has been completely stopped. Rescue teams meticulously cleared the wreckage, restoring smooth traffic on both the expressway and NH-48.
Eyewitnesses described the chaos: the tanker flipped around 5 PM on February 3, unleashing flammable gas that necessitated an instant traffic blockade. In a swift multi-agency mobilization, highway cops, local police, firefighters, NDRF specialists, BPCL engineers, Help Foundation volunteers, and hazmat experts converged to tackle the volatile situation.
Sealing the leak proved a Herculean task, demanding round-the-clock vigilance. Victory came at dawn on February 5 when the flow was stemmed at 1:30 AM, allowing safe removal of the tanker. A official statement hailed the ‘unwavering commitment’ of all involved, ensuring no lives were lost.
The blockage caused epic gridlock, with commuters sharing harrowing stories online while authorities kept the public informed. With roads clear, officials warn against misinformation and call for vigilant driving. This close call spotlights ongoing safety challenges on high-speed expressways and the critical role of preparedness.
