MSRDC panel seeks mandatory SOPs, multi-agency clearances for hazardous cargo on eways

Pune: Fixing direct accountability on companies transporting hazardous material, implementing mandatory safety forms, stricter clearances from the transport department, highway police and MSRDC, and detailed emergency response plans are among the key recommendations made by an expert panel in the aftermath of the Feb 3, 2026, propylene tanker accident on the Mumbai-Pune expressway.The seven-member committee was constituted by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) on Feb 15 after the mishap near the Adoshi tunnel in the Khandala ghat section. Helmed by former Indian Roads Congress (IRC) president CP Joshi and ex-inspector general (IG) of Konkan region S Mohite, besides other members, the panel has submitted a detailed 250-page report to MSRDC.Officials said nearly 250 vehicles carrying hazardous and highly inflammable material use the expressway daily, prompting the panel to recommend tighter monitoring and compliance mechanisms.The report proposes holding companies directly responsible for safety compliance and emergency response measures in the event of leaks or accidents involving hazardous consignments.MSRDC joint managing director Rajesh Patil told TOI that the report would be submitted to state govt within the next two days and the recommendations were likely to be implemented in the next couple of months after detailed scrutiny.“The committee has provided a proper overview of such situations and suggested both short- and long-term measures. The report will be submitted to state govt in two days. Its suggestions will be weighed thoroughly for practical implementation and are likely to be implemented on the expressway and other highways within two to three months,” Patil said.Among the major recommendations is a system of mandatory forms and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for transporters and companies handling hazardous material to ensure uniform safety practices. Officials said transporters may be required to furnish detailed information on the hazardous material being carried, route plans, emergency protocols and contact details before movement permissions are granted.The report has also proposed stricter scrutiny and coordinated clearances involving the transport department, highway police and MSRDC before highly inflammable consignments are allowed on the expressway. Companies have been asked to submit clear action plans outlining steps to be taken in the event of leakage, fire or other emergencies.Calling the Feb incident “rare”, Patil said highway police have since intensified monitoring of vehicles carrying highly inflammable material on the key thoroughfare.Officials said the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has also separately been directed to submit an independent report on the issue. Both reports will be examined together before finalising implementation measures aimed at strengthening highway safety and disaster management systems.