Dhanbad, Dec. 4 -- Two women have died in Jharkhand's Dhanbad district amid growing panic over a suspected toxic gas leak in the Kenduadih area, triggering protests and a significant administrative response.

The deaths of Priyanka Devi on Wednesday evening and Lalita Devi earlier today have deepened fear among residents. While Locals believe gas exposure caused the fatalities, officials maintain that the exact reason will be confirmed only after post-mortem reports are released.

Tensions escalated on Thursday morning when villagers blocked the Dhanbad-Ranchi highway, setting tyres and demanding immediate relocation and action to identify and seal the gas source. The blockade continued for nearly four hours before being lifted following ...