Methanol Tanker Overturns Over Mumbai-Pune Expressway, Engulfs Into Flames Killing 4

A fire ignited over the Mumbai-Pune Expressway near Lonavala after a tanker carrying methanol overturned. Methanol is a highly inflammable and toxic chemical that led to the ignition of fire. 4 people died in the accident while 3 others sustained severe burn injuries.

As per the information from police, the accident took place on an overbridge located near the hill station of Lonavala. The investigation is going on and the investigators are trying to investigate the reason for the accident. Also, Police officials are trying to figure out the details of the tanker as to who is the owner.

Either side of the expressway had to be barricaded by the Highway Safety Patrol authorities for an hour between  11.40 am and 12.40 pm. This was because the entire tanker was burning into flames.

Relief operation from the state

Emergency response teams from Pune Rural police, Highway Safety Patrol, Expressway emergency response body, Pune Disaster Management Cell, fire brigades from Lonavala and Khopoli municipal councils, and those from the Indian Navy’s Lonavala-based training facility INS Shivaji launched a relief operation.

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Police investigation on Methanol tanker revealed

Inspector Sitaram Dubal, in charge of Lonavala police station, said, “We initially thought that it was an oil tanker. The probe has now revealed that it was carrying methanol. Of the four people who died, one was in the tanker cabin and the rest were in vehicles passing below the bridge. Of the three injured, two were in the tanker cabin and one was on a vehicle below.”

Pune Rural Superintendent of Police Ankit Goyal said, “Primary probe suggests the methanol may have leaked from the gaps on the structure of the bridge’s surface or the side walls. The identities of the deceased and injured are being ascertained. All have suffered severe burn injuries.”

“Our initial priority has been to ensure evacuation and emergency medical care and resuming traffic on the expressway,” he added. Officials said the fire, which was initially brought under control, intensified later before it was controlled again.

Maharashtra Deputy CM shares a message

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said in a tweet, “My heartfelt tribute to the four persons who have died in the tragic accident. Three people were injured in this incident and they are undergoing treatment in the hospital. I pray for their speedy recovery.”

“Emergency response teams from the state police force, highway patrol, INS Shivaji, and fire brigade are at the spot and now the fire is under control. Traffic has been restored on one side, and the other side will also start soon. The state government is closely monitoring the situation,” he added.