A chemical factory gas leak sparked fears among residents as it spread over a city in India.

Footage shows a smoky haze covering a road on September 12, believed to have come from the Nikakem Products firm in Maharashtra.

The smog-like mist could also be seen over the horizon.

A day later, on September 13, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) issued a closure notice after locals reported numerous cases of respiratory issues, eye irritation, and vomiting.

Some of the residents also reported experiencing panic attacks upon inhaling the mist.

The gas leak reportedly happened at 11 pm on Thursday and spread within 1km (0.62 miles) and was declared under control after two hours.

The chemical firm produces hazardous compounds such as hydrochloric acid, phosphorus pentoxide, and phosphorus trichloride.

The pollution board's senior official Rajendra Rajput said they discovered that large quantities of acid were stored in drums without adhering to proper safety protocols.

He said: 'The emission of hazardous vapours was a result of a chemical reaction between the stored acid and rainwater seeping through the roof.'

A gas detection system was installed on-site to monitor the leak's extent and ensure air quality standards were maintained.

Ambernath Senior Police Inspector Jagannath Kalaskar said they were alerted to the leak and found two partially chopped yellow drums which emitted smoke.

Resident Jayesh Nair said: 'The night was terrifying, it was so dark outside. I experienced nausea and eye irritation, as did my neighbours.'

Another resident, Satish Waghmare said: 'My neighbours were coughing and in a state of panic throughout the night, and my eye irritation persisted for hours.'