DHAKA: At least five people were killed and over 40 reportedly injured due to a leakage in a methane gas pipeline at a water pump house in the Bhilai steel plant in Chhattisgarh on Thursday night.

According to sources, the incident took place at about 7:00pm. Though the officials claim that five people have died in the mishap, unconfirmed reports put the toll higher.

Following the incident, senior fire, police and Bhilai plant officials have rushed to the spot for carrying out rescue operations, reports Times of India.  

Till filing this report, the authorities were still investigating the cause of the leak. 

Though the identities of the dead were not immediately known, they were suspected to be labourers working at the plant. 

According to BSP officials, critically injured employees have been admitted to plant's hospital at Sector 9 where the condition of at least 11 were reported to be serious.

BDST: 0109 HRS, JUN 13, 2014