Kozhikode: A diesel leak has been reported from the Elathur depot of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL). Diesel flowed into drainage channels for an extended period before the issue was noticed. The leakage occurred during maintenance work at the depot.

The problem was identified around 6 PM. Local residents gathered to collect the diesel from the drains, raising safety and environmental concerns. The fire department has reached the site to manage the situation.

HPCL officials attributed the incident to a malfunction in the depot’s warning system, which led to an overflow. They confirmed that the issue has been resolved. Approximately 600 liters of diesel is reported to have leaked.

In the meantime, local residents have staged a protest, citing similar incidents in the past. They voiced concerns that the leaked diesel might have already contaminated nearby rivers and the sea, with fears that local wells could also become polluted soon.