Bhubaneswar, Feb 26: Panic gripped the Aiginia market area late at night after a pipe connected to a cold storage unit burst, triggering a leak of toxic ammonia gas. The incident led to the rapid spread of ammonia fumes in the surrounding locality, prompting an emergency response.

According to preliminary reports, the ammonia gas pipeline linked to the Aiginia cold storage facility developed a leak, resulting in the release of hazardous gas into the air. Upon receiving information, fire services personnel rushed to the spot and immediately launched a rescue and containment operation.

Firefighters conducted door-to-door evacuations, moving people to safer locations. After nearly four hours of sustained efforts, the team managed to control the situation and prevent further spread of the gas. Officials entered the cold storage premises and successfully shut down the leaking valve.

A total of five fire units, including teams from Tamando, Bhubaneswar, Secretariat Fire Station, and the striking force, were deployed. Around 35 fire personnel, along with senior officials such as the DFO, AFO, Central Range Fire Officer, and local Khandagiri police, participated in the operation.

Authorities have stated that an investigation will be carried out to determine the exact cause of the ammonia leak.