Gas Leak Shuts Lucknow-Ayodhya Highway for 14 Hours, Stranding Thousands

• An LPG tanker gas leak near Barabanki closed the Lucknow-Ayodhya Highway for 14 hours, causing massive traffic jams.
• The leak started Wednesday evening, leading to traffic diversion and stranding thousands of vehicles, including 30 Roadways buses.
• Efforts by local teams and experts from Banthra, Lucknow, including using Plaster of Paris, failed to stop the high-pressure leak.
• A special vehicle and expert team from Shahjahanpur were called to transfer gas to another tanker as a last resort.
• Critically ill patients, including four from Barabanki District Hospital, faced life-threatening delays due to the highway closure.

Key Questions Answered

What caused the gas leak on the highway?

The gas leak on the Lucknow-Ayodhya highway was caused by an LPG tanker. The leak persisted for 14 hours, leading to the highway's closure and traffic diversions.

How will future gas leaks be prevented?

Future gas leaks will be prevented by transitioning to Piped Natural Gas (PNG). PNG offers a safer supply with lower pressure.

What is the impact on local businesses?

Local businesses, particularly hotels and restaurants, are facing significant impacts due to ongoing geopolitical tensions and gas cylinder shortages.