Ammonia leak at Mahananda Dairy in Mumbai triggers multi-agency response; no injuries reported

Time of India

3 days ago

MUMBAI: An ammonia gas leak was reported at the Mahananda Dairy plant in Goregaon (East) around 9:12 pm on July 23. This triggered a multi-agency response to contain the leak and prevent harm to workers.
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According to civic officials ammonia began leaking from a tank with a capacity of 3,000 kilograms, located inside a ground-floor refrigeration unit spanning approximately 2,000 sq. ft. The leakage was traced to a faulty valve.
As a precautionary measure, the plant's electrical supply was disconnected by the dairy's in-house electrician. Teams from the Mumbai fire brigade, Police, HAZMAT unit, 108 Ambulance services, and ward staff were immediately mobilized.
HAZMAT is a specialized unit trained to handle dangerous substances like toxic chemicals, gases, biological agents, or radioactive materials.
Emergency responders equipped with 25 breathing apparatus (BA) kits shut off 15 to 16 valves to prevent further leakage. Simultaneously, personnel in chemical suits from the HAZMAT unit worked to stop the leak directly at the faulty valve. Sealant from Hazmat vehicles was used to plug the leak.
To neutralize the escaping ammonia, fire officials deployed three high-pressure first aid lines and a small hose line connected to a four-motor pump. Around 15–20 kg of residual ammonia gas, mixed with Prizol 68 lubricant oil, was safely transferred to another reservoir tank.
The area was cordoned off as a safety measure to avoid exposure. No injuries were reported in the incident.
Further investigation is underway to determine the cause of the valve failure and assess any long-term risks associated with the leak.