Oleum Gas Leak

Why in News?

A fresh oleum gas leak at a chemical unit in Boisar has once again brought attention to recurring industrial safety incidents in the Tarapur-Boisar belt of Palghar district, Maharashtra.

• Oleum (fuming sulphuric acid) – It is a highly corrosive, dense, oily liquid ranging from colourless to pale yellow, formed by dissolving sulfur trioxide in sulfuric acid.
• Application – It is primarily used in industrial sulfonations, explosives, dye manufacturing, and producing high-strength sulfuric acid.
• Impact – It reacted with air to release sulphur dioxide and other sulphur oxides.
• This produced a dense white cloud that reduced visibility within the factory premises and surrounding areas.
• Tarapur-Boisar Industrial Estate – Together form one of Maharashtra’s oldest and largest industrial estates.
• This area houses a large number of chemical, pharmaceutical, and allied manufacturing units operating in close proximity.
• Risk – Because many hazardous processes take place within a relatively small area, the probability of accidents involving gases, chemicals or industrial spills increases.
• Other Hazardous Substances in Use – Many of the factories in the area handle highly reactive or toxic substances such as chlorine, nitrogen derivatives, and other industrial gases.
• These materials require stringent safety systems, specialised storage infrastructure, and continuous monitoring.

Safeguards against chemical disasters in India

• Indian Penal Code (IPC)
• Various guidelines under the Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).
• Environment Protection Act, 1986
• Manufacture, Storage and Import of Hazardous Chemical (MSIHC) Rules, 1989 & Chemical Accident Rules, 1996
• Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991
• National Environment Appellate Authority Act, 1997
• National Green Tribunal Act, 2010

Quick Fact

Reference

Indian Express | Oleum gas leak at the Tarapur-Boisar belt