Lucknow: Formalin Tanker Overturns on Kisan Path, Causing Chemical Chaos
A formalin tanker overturned on Lucknow's Kisan Path, spilling chemical and causing panic. Authorities responded to the incident.
Major Road Accident on Kisan Path
A severe road accident occurred on Monday evening, October 26, 2026, in Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh. A tanker carrying formalin chemical lost control and overturned near the Manpur-Bama underpass in the Bakhshi Ka Talab (BKT) police station area.
The overturned tanker released its chemical contents onto the road, spreading a pungent odor across a one to two-kilometer radius. This incident caused significant alarm among local residents and passersby. The tanker was reportedly en route from Sandila in Hardoi district towards Gudamba or Gonda.
Chemical Spill and Health Risks
Initial reports suggest the driver lost control after one of the vehicle's tires suddenly burst, leading to the tanker overturning. The resulting damage allowed the chemical liquid, formalin, to flow onto the road.
Formalin, which contains formaldehyde, is a highly flammable and hazardous chemical. Its strong odor and fumes can be dangerous to individuals exposed directly. Following the spill, several local residents and commuters reported immediate burning sensations in their eyes, nose, throat, and skin. Many also experienced severe breathing difficulties, creating an atmosphere of fear in the area.
Immediate Response and Containment
Upon receiving information about the incident, police from the Bakhshi Ka Talab police station, the fire department, and emergency services from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) promptly arrived at the scene.
To prevent any potential larger hazard, the area surrounding the accident site was immediately barricaded and sealed, with traffic completely halted. The public was advised to stay as far away from the affected zone as possible and to avoid any direct contact with the chemical.
Authorities are currently awaiting official confirmation on the exact quantity of formalin spilled, the total number of individuals directly affected, and whether anyone sustained serious injuries. This accident has once again raised questions about the effectiveness of safety protocols and emergency response preparedness during the transportation of hazardous chemicals.