Gas Pipeline Rupture Sparks Panic in Cuttack’s CDA Sector 9
Panic erupted among residents of CDA Sector 9 in Cuttack on Monday after an LPG gas pipeline ruptured during construction work involving heavy machinery, causing a gas leak in the area. Immediate evacuation measures were implemented, raising serious safety concerns among locals.
Reports indicate that the pipeline was damaged during ongoing construction, prompting residents to alert neighbors and vacate the area. Passers-by were also warned to maintain a safe distance to avoid potential hazards.
Fire services and officials from the gas pipeline company responded swiftly, initiating repairs and bringing the situation under control. Fortunately, no casualties were reported.
Safety Concerns Due to Proximity to Petrol PumpThe rupture alarmed residents as the damaged pipeline is located near a petrol pump, making the area highly vulnerable. Warning boards indicating underground gas pipelines were already installed, and construction was prohibited. Residents stressed that even a minor spark could have led to a major disaster due to the highly flammable surroundings. Questions have been raised over who approved the construction and whether standard safety protocols were followed.
Eyewitness Accounts and Official ResponseA local corporator said the gas leaked up to 50 feet, creating a dangerous situation. “Fortunately, no mobile phones were used, no vehicles passed through, and no cigarettes were lit. Roadside vendors fled, leaving their belongings,” he said. GAIL officials and the Fire Department responded promptly, though the party responsible for the construction remains unclear.
Another resident alleged that individuals linked to a nearby petrol pump carried out the unauthorized construction to build a road, despite prior proposals for a park being rejected due to existing sewage and gas pipelines.
Residents Demand InvestigationFollowing the incident, residents have called for a thorough probe to determine who authorised the construction, whether the pipeline was laid at the prescribed depth, and who permitted tree-cutting and construction in the restricted zone. At present, no official confirmation has been provided regarding responsibility.
