A significant gas leak in northwest Indiana resulted in the closure of a section of Interstate 94 for several hours, leading to extensive traffic congestion on Tuesday afternoon.
The Portage Fire Department swiftly responded to a gas leak at the Ameriplex complex, located north of I-94 and near a Bass Pro Shops store. The incident occurred during the middle of the day on a plot of land along Daniel Burnham Drive, which runs parallel to I-94.
A dangerous plume of natural gas caused the closure of I-94 in both directions between Portage and Burns Harbor, Indiana.
Indiana State Police announced the reopening of all lanes on the interstate, both eastbound and westbound, around 6:20 p.m.
According to Indiana State Police and NIPSCO, the leak occurred when a contractor accidentally struck a pipe during underground digging in the area.
Officials have released a video that captures the gas leak incident, revealing a conspicuous cloud of gas ascending from a damaged underground gas line. However, despite the leak, NIPSCO has assured that the area remains safe.
According to a Facebook post by Mayor Bonta, the necessary part to repair the damaged plastic gas pipe was on board a truck that was also stuck in the traffic jam. To ensure the timely delivery of the part, a police escort was required for the truck to navigate through the congestion along with everyone else.
NIPSCO crews were spotted diligently working to make the necessary repairs once the gas had been completely shut off.
Pacholke spent a total of 2 hours and 15 minutes in the car.
“It usually takes about 35 to 40 minutes to travel from Michigan City to Portage,” she mentioned.
No injuries were reported in connection to the gas leak.
