A significant traffic crisis unfolded on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway on February 4, 2026, when a gas tanker carrying flammable propylene overturned in the Khandala Ghat section. The incident, which occurred near the Adoshi tunnel around 5:00 PM, caused a complete traffic paralysis, stranding thousands of commuters for over 12 hours. The Maharashtra Highway Traffic Police immediately issued an advisory urging motorists to steer clear of the expressway until normal traffic flow could be restored.
The overturned tanker resulted in a continuous leak of gas, prompting authorities to shut down the Mumbai-bound carriageway as a safety measure. This led to severe congestion on both sides of the 94.5 km highway, with many travelers likening the scene to a "literal parking lot." Families, including women and children, faced the distressing reality of being stranded without access to food and water for hours on end.
- Stranded for hours — many families lacked basic necessities during the ordeal
- Traffic diversions — vehicles headed to Mumbai were rerouted to Pune-bound lanes
- Safety protocols in place — emergency teams worked around the clock to manage the gas leak
Social media users, including individuals like VyasKarn and Sohit Manik, shared their frustrations, with some travelers reporting delays of up to eight hours. An MSRTC bus conductor revealed that their bus was stationary for over six hours near the accident site, leaving passengers without basic toilet facilities. Reports indicate that the tanker lost control on a slope before overturning, exacerbating the situation.
The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) confirmed that various agencies are collaborating to clear the site and restore normalcy. While Pune-bound traffic is slowly making progress, ensuring the safety of the Mumbai-bound corridor remains a top priority for the teams managing the hazardous gas situation. Commuters are advised to stay updated on the status of the expressway before embarking on their journeys.
