Emergency on Mumbai–Pune Expressway as Gas Tanker Accident Triggers Traffic Shutdown

Lonavala, 3rd February 2024: Traffic on the Mumbai-bound carriageway of the Mumbai–Pune Expressway was brought to a halt on Tuesday evening after a tanker carrying propylene gas overturned near the Adoshi Tunnel, prompting a major safety response from authorities.

The accident occurred around 5 pm when the tanker, travelling from Pune towards Mumbai, lost control while negotiating a curve near the tunnel entrance. The vehicle toppled onto its side, and officials soon detected a leak of propylene — a highly inflammable industrial gas — raising fears of a possible explosion.

“A potentially dangerous situation developed because the tanker was transporting propylene, which is extremely flammable. As soon as the leakage was confirmed, we implemented full emergency protocols,” a senior highway police officer said.

To prevent any risk to motorists, all traffic heading towards Mumbai was immediately stopped. Vehicles moving towards Pune were allowed only under strict regulation and monitoring.

Emergency teams from Borghat Police, IRB Highway Police, Devdoot emergency services, Help Foundation volunteers, and the Khopoli Fire Brigade rushed to the scene. Firefighters worked to contain the leak and secure the area around the tanker.

“Our priority is to control the gas leakage and ensure there is no ignition source anywhere near the site,” a fire official at the spot said. “No movement will be allowed until we are fully confident the situation is safe.”

A specialised technical team was later called in to assist with sealing the leak and safely handling the hazardous cargo. Additional police personnel were deployed around the Adoshi Tunnel as a precaution.

The incident triggered long traffic snarls on the expressway, leaving hundreds of commuters stranded for hours. Authorities advised motorists to avoid the Mumbai–Pune Expressway and use alternate routes until the situation is resolved.

“We urge citizens to cooperate with the police and follow traffic advisories. Public safety is our top concern,” the officer added.

Officials said normal traffic will resume only after the tanker is secured and the area is declared free of risk. Further updates are expected as containment operations continue.