Dozens hospitalised after chlorine gas leak in Madhya Pradesh’s Jhabua

A chlorine gas leak at a filtration plant in Thandla, Jhabua district, caused panic among residents and workers on Friday morning. Nearly 49 people were hospitalised with breathing difficulties and irritation, though all are stable.

Bhopal/Thandla (Jhabua): A chlorine gas leak occurred at the gas filtration plant in Thandla town of Jhabua district on Friday morning due to a technical malfunction, affecting plant employees and nearby residents.​

The incident triggered panic in the area as several people complained of breathing difficulties, irritation in the eyes and throat, and anxiety. Prompt action by the district administration quickly brought the situation under control.​

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Immediately after receiving information, a high-level rescue team comprising Sub-Divisional Magistrate Bhaskar Gachle, Chief Municipal Officer Kamlesh Jaiswal, and District Commandant S.D. Pillai rushed to the spot. ​

Technical support was also provided by an industrial unit from Meghnagar. An expert team from Indore has arrived to inspect the remaining tanks and assess the plant’s safety.​

According to the Block Medical Officer, Thandla, an initial group of 20–25 people was admitted to the hospital with breathing problems. ​

As a precautionary measure, the Health Department conducted a door-to-door survey, and more people with mild symptoms were placed under observation.​

Currently, 49 patients are undergoing treatment, and all are reported to be in stable condition.​

The District Collector issued a statement saying that a technical malfunction at the gas filtration plant in Thandla led to a chlorine gas leak in the morning. ​

“Due to the swift response of the administration and rescue teams, the situation has been brought under control. All affected individuals are receiving proper medical care. A technical team is inspecting the site, and the Health Department is conducting a door-to-door survey to ensure no one is left unattended,” he said.​

Senior officials confirmed that the leak has been contained and there is no further risk to the public. The plant has been temporarily shut down for safety inspection.​

Local residents expressed relief at the administration’s quick response but also demanded a thorough probe into the cause of the malfunction and stricter safety protocols at the plant.​

The district administration has assured full support to the affected families and has appealed to people to remain calm.​