Raigad floods wash away 3,000 LPG cylinders (Source X)
Raigad: Three Thousands LPG cylinders were swept away by floodwaters in Maharashtra's Raigad district after heavy rainfall.
The cylinders swept away as monsoon rains triggered severe waterlogging at an HPCL bottling plant.
Visuals showing cylinders floating down the Patalganga River has since gone viral, raising concerns among residents.
The incident took place at HPCL's Patalganga LPG Bottling Plant in Chavane village of Panvel taluka, where relentless rain caused flooding inside the facility.
Raigad District Collector Kishan Jawale urged people not to pick up or take home any cylinders that may have drifted ashore.
"There is no guarantee whether the cylinders washed into the river contain gas or whether they are in a safe condition. Picking them up, opening them or taking them home out of curiosity or for use could be extremely dangerous," the collector said.
He requested the locals not pick any cylinders and take home.
The Collector said it is not yet clear whether the cylinders drifting in the river are filled with LPG or empty, nor has their safety condition been established.
Authorities have urged people to stay away from any cylinders that may have drifted ashore, warning that their condition remains unknown.
Heavy rainfall in the Western Ghats and Raigad has pushed several rivers, including the Savitri, above danger levels. Waterlogging has also affected parts of the Ahmedabad-Mumbai Expressway, forcing temporary closures at some stretches.
Authorities said rescue and restoration work is underway, while residents in vulnerable areas have been advised to remain vigilant.
Heavy rainfall has continued to batter several parts of Maharashtra over the past week, triggering floods, waterlogging, and overflowing rivers. Raigad remains among the worst-hit districts, with widespread flooding affecting normal life and prompting authorities to remain on high alert.
