A significant leak of hazardous oleum gas occurred at a Bhageria Industries Ltd. chemical unit in Palghar, Maharashtra, on Monday, March 2, 2026, prompting the evacuation of over 2,600 individuals, including 1,600 students from Tarapur Vidyamandir. The incident, which began around 2 p.m. in the Boisar MIDC area, involved a 2,500-litre oleum tank, releasing a dense white fume cloud that spread approximately 5 km due to strong winds, causing alarm. While three people reported minor eye irritation, no serious injuries were sustained. Emergency response teams, including the NDRF and BARC, worked to contain the leak, eventually locating the source and deploying sandbags to suppress the fumes. The cause of the leak remains undetermined, and authorities are monitoring the situation closely, urging residents to stay indoors and avoid spreading rumors.