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A suspected toxic gas leak in Dhanbad’s Kenduadih has killed two women and hospitalised dozens, sparking protests and road blockades. As authorities scramble to find the source, locals fear for their lives- what caused this deadly gas outbreak?
A suspected toxic gas leak in Dhanbad has killed two women
Dhanbad: In a suspected toxic gas leak in Kenduadih, Dhanbad district, at least two women have died and over a dozen people have been hospitalised, officials and eyewitnesses reported on Thursday. The deaths sparked protests as locals demand urgent action while authorities investigate the source of the leak.
The two victims, Priyanka Devi, who died on Wednesday evening, and Lalita Devi, who succumbed early Thursday, reportedly suffered due to exposure to the gas.
Residents told news agencies that the deaths were caused by inhaling the toxic fumes, though officials have stated that the exact cause will only be confirmed after post-mortem reports.
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Several others from the affected area were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment as symptoms like breathing difficulties and dizziness spread among locals.
Following the tragic deaths, hundreds of residents staged protests, blocking the Dhanbad-Ranchi main road and burning tyres in anger and fear. Villagers demanded immediate action from both the authorities and the coal company operating in the region. The protests reflect growing frustration among locals over safety and emergency response measures in the area.
The affected region falls under the government-owned Bharat Coking Coal Limited’s (BCCL) coal-mining area. The company has initiated evacuation procedures for Kenduadih Basti, which houses approximately 10,000 people. Areas like Rajput Basti, Masjid Mohalla, and Officer Colony are among the worst affected.
Authorities are working alongside BCCL to identify the source of the suspected gas leak and ensure that residents are moved to safer locations.
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Officials are investigating the exact cause of the leak, while safety measures and medical support continue to be provided to the affected population. Residents remain on edge as the investigation progresses, with the community demanding transparency and swift action to prevent further casualties.
Tensions had escalated Thursday morning as villagers blocked the Dhanbad-Ranchi highway, setting tyres on fire and demanding immediate relocation. It continued for nearly four hours before discussions between locals and the administration cooled tempers somewhat.
