Toxic Gas Leak At Tarapur MIDC Pharma Unit Leaves 15 Workers Affected, Safety Concerns Rise
Toxic Gas Leak At Tarapur MIDC Pharma Unit Leaves 15 Workers Affected, Safety Concerns Rise (Representative Image )
Tarapur MIDC, March 23, 2026: Panic gripped the industrial belt in Boisar after a toxic gas leak was reported at a pharmaceutical unit, leaving several workers affected.
The incident occurred late at night at Aarti Pharma Labs, where a leak of Dimethyl Sulfate (DMS) — a highly hazardous chemical — exposed around 12 to 15 workers to toxic fumes. The affected workers were rushed to a private hospital in Boisar, where they are currently undergoing treatment. Some are reported to be in serious condition.
The incident has triggered outrage, with allegations that the company management attempted to suppress information about the leak. The recurring nature of such incidents in Tarapur MIDC has raised serious concerns about worker safety and regulatory oversight, with critics accusing authorities of negligence.
Why Dimethyl Sulfate is Dangerous
Dimethyl Sulfate is a liquid chemical that releases extremely toxic vapours when leaked, making it highly dangerous. Once in contact with air or moisture, it can generate harmful compounds such as methanol and sulfuric acid.
Often referred to as a “silent killer,” DMS can enter the body through inhalation without immediate symptoms. However, exposure can cause severe damage to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system, with delayed but serious health effects, including breathing difficulties and lung damage.
Recurring Incidents Raise Alarm
This is not the first such case in the region. Earlier on March 2, a gas leak involving oleum was reported at another chemical unit in Tarapur MIDC, affecting areas within a 5-kilometre radius, including nearby villages.
The repeated incidents have intensified concerns over industrial safety standards in the region, with calls for stricter monitoring and accountability to prevent further risks to workers and residents.
