A massive fire at the Haldia Petrochemicals plant in West Bengal left at least 20 people injured after an explosion in a naphtha pipeline early Tuesday. The Haldia Petrochemicals fire spread rapidly, prompting a major emergency response as firefighters rushed to contain the blaze.
Firefighting operations have continued since morning, with officials saying the number of injured could rise as rescue and relief work progresses. The company has assured all possible assistance to those injured in the Haldia Petrochemicals fire.
Haldia Petrochemicals shares initial assessment of the fire
In an official statement, Haldia Petrochemicals said naphtha is a highly flammable hydrocarbon that can ignite within seconds. The company added that handling petroleum products always carries significant risks and that local residents had been repeatedly cautioned about the hazards. The company also said 15 fire engines have been deployed to bring the Haldia fire under control.
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Although the exact cause of the Haldia Petrochemicals explosion has not yet been established, the company said its preliminary assessment indicates the incident may have been linked to the alleged illegal theft of naphtha from the plant.
“The investigation into the incident has been initiated jointly with the local administration. No individual will be held responsible until the investigation is completed,” the company said.
Lightning claim remains unverified
Some residents have claimed that lightning during Monday night may have triggered the Haldia Petrochemicals explosion. However, the administration has not confirmed the claim, and officials have not linked the industrial fire to adverse weather conditions.
Haldia fire: Six critically injured shifted to Kolkata
According to administrative sources, at least 20 people have been injured in the Haldia Petrochemicals fire. Three victims were discharged after receiving primary treatment.
Six critically injured people are being shifted to Kolkata through a green corridor for advanced medical care. Others are undergoing treatment at Tamluk Medical College and Hospital and Haldia Sub-Divisional Hospital. Sources said all those injured are local residents.
Haldia Petrochemicals fire disrupts train services
The Haldia Petrochemicals fire has also disrupted railway operations on the Howrah-Haldia and Howrah-Panskura routes. The explosion occurred near a railway line, where sources said the overhead electric line, transformers and a section of the track sustained damage.
Train movement on the affected stretch has been suspended until further notice. Several trains have been cancelled, while the routes of several others have been diverted following the Haldia Petrochemicals explosion.
