Last Updated:
The fire at Haldia Petrochemicals Pipeline also spread to nearby houses, reducing several of them to ashes.
Massive Fire Rocks Haldia Refinery; 20 Injured, Houses Damaged
At least 20 people were injured after a massive fire broke out at a naphtha-carrying pipeline near an oil refinery in West Bengal’s Haldia district early on Tuesday morning.
The blaze erupted in the Chiranjibpur area of Ward No. 13 under Haldia Municipality, triggering panic in the locality. According to a senior police officer of East Midnapore district, six of the injured are in a critical condition and are being shifted to a hospital in Kolkata for specialised treatment.
The fire also spread to nearby houses, reducing several of them to ashes.
Firefighting operation underway
Firefighters rushed to the spot and launched a large-scale operation to contain the blaze. Nine fire engines were deployed to bring the fire under control.
Residents who suffered burn injuries were rescued and taken to Haldia Sub-Divisional Hospital. Those with critical injuries were later shifted to Tamluk Medical College and Hospital for further treatment.
The incident also disrupted railway operations, with train services on the Haldia-Panskura route suspended as authorities responded to the emergency.
Company issues statement
Haldia Petrochemicals confirmed that an incident had occurred at its Haldia facility and said a few people had reportedly sustained injuries. “Our thoughts are with those affected, and we are extending all necessary support to the concerned authorities,” the company said in a holding statement.
According to the company, preliminary information suggests the incident may have occurred near an unauthorised naphtha theft point in the vicinity of the plant.
It said naphtha is a highly combustible and extremely flammable hydrocarbon and that the company has consistently cautioned local communities against unauthorised access to or handling of petroleum products because of the serious safety risks involved.
Cause of fire under investigation
The company said the exact cause of the fire is being investigated in coordination with the relevant authorities.
It added that it would be premature to comment further or assign responsibility until the investigation is completed. “Safety remains our highest priority, and we will continue to cooperate fully with the investigating agencies. We will provide further updates as and when verified information becomes available,” the statement said.
Authorities are continuing firefighting and rescue operations at the site while the investigation into the incident remains underway.
About the Author
Shuddhanta Patra, a seasoned journalist with eight years of experience, serves as Senior Sub‑Editor at CNN News 18. With expertise across national politics, geopolitics, business news, she has influen…Read More
Haldia, India, India
Read More
Source link
[ad_3]
