Maharashtra Plans SOPs and Emergency Measures After Mumbai-Pune Expressway Tanker Accident

A tanker carrying highly flammable propylene overturned on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway's Khopoli stretch, causing a 33-36 hour traffic halt and stranding thousands. Maharashtra's Chief Minister and Transport Minister acknowledged delays in emergency response and lack of a dedicated SOP. The government is now directing oil companies to develop SOPs, considering airlifting damaged tankers in extreme cases, and plans to establish hazardous material response units and enhance fire-fighting systems along highways and tunnels. Toll refunds were also announced for affected commuters.