Mumbai/Pune: Chaos ensued on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway after a chemical-laden gas tanker overturned, causing a massive traffic jam. Authorities have now brought the situation largely under control, opening one lane for Mumbai-bound vehicles and diverting others to alternate routes.
The incident occurred on February 3, 2026, around 5:00 PM near kilometer 41/200, close to the Adoshi Tunnel on the Borghat section. The tanker, carrying highly flammable propylene gas, overturned while traveling from Pune to Mumbai. Damage to three valves on the tanker led to gas leakage, creating a potentially hazardous situation for commuters.
By February 4, a team of chemical experts managed to completely stop the leaks at two locations and significantly control the third. The transfer of gas from the damaged tanker to a safe container began at 5:00 PM, and once completed, the tanker will be removed, allowing full restoration of Mumbai-bound traffic.
To ease congestion, the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) removed the central divider and opened one lane of the Pune-bound side for vehicles heading toward Mumbai. Traffic heading toward Pune continues on the remaining two lanes. Light vehicles bound for Mumbai have been diverted via the Magic Point–Khopoli (old highway) route.
Authorities, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and chemical safety teams, responded promptly, arriving on-site by 8:30 PM and 10:20 PM, respectively. MSRDC continues to provide live traffic updates via FM radio, social media, and other communication channels.
The expressway jam, which stretched for over 20 kilometers, had sparked complaints from commuters over lack of drinking water and sanitation facilities, prompting swift government intervention.
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