Hardoi (UP), March 17 Panic spread through parts of the Hardoi city on Tuesday after a sudden leak in an underground PNG gas pipeline triggered a loud noise, causing residents to rush out of their homes and shops, officials said.
The incident occurred near a water tank on Bawan Road in the city area, where gas began leaking with a sharp sound, creating a sense of fear in the neighborhood.
According to locals, the pressure of the escaping gas was so intense that the sound echoed over a considerable distance.
The residents immediately alerted the authorities about the incident.
District Magistrate (DM) Anunay Jha and Superintendent of Police Ashok Kumar Meena, along with fire brigade teams, rushed to the spot and initiated measures to control the situation.
Officials said the leak was caused due to a malfunction in the pipeline valve. The concerned department's technical team is working to contain the leakage.
"There have been no reports of any loss of life or property so far. The situation is being brought under control," the DM said.
Fire tenders have been deployed at the site as a precautionary measure to prevent any possible fire hazard, and safety protocols, including continuous water sprinkling, are being followed, officials added.