A major fire broke out in West Bengal's Haldia early on Tuesday after an alleged leak in a pipeline at Haldia Petrochemicals triggered an explosion. The blaze rapidly spread to Chiranjibpur in Ward No. 13 of Haldia Municipality, destroying several houses and leaving around 15 people injured.
Twelve fire engines were deployed to the spot as firefighters battled the flames. Firefighting operations were still underway at the time of reporting.
Residents woke up to a loud explosion
According to residents, the incident took place around daybreak when a loud explosion was heard from a pipeline connected to Haldia Petrochemicals. Within moments, flames spread to nearby residential houses, engulfing a large section of the locality.
The sudden fire forced residents to flee their homes in panic as thick smoke and flames spread through the area.
Also Read | Taratala warehouse collapse: Death toll rises to 16 as rescue enters fourth day
Firefighters reached the spot soon after receiving the alert and rescued those trapped in the affected area before beginning efforts to bring the fire under control.
Around 15 injured, two in critical condition
Police said nearly 15 people sustained burn injuries in the incident. They were first taken to Haldia Sub-Divisional Hospital for treatment.
According to Bhabanipur Police, five of the injured were later shifted to Tamluk Medical College and Hospital. Two of them are reported to be in critical condition.
Haldia MLA Pradip Bijli visited the injured at Tamluk Medical College on Tuesday morning.
Speaking about the incident, he said, "Naphtha had leaked from the pipeline, and the explosion occurred from that point."
Probe underway into cause of explosion
While preliminary information points to a naphtha leak, officials have not confirmed the exact reason behind the explosion.
District Magistrate Niranjan Kumar said, "It is too early to say how the incident occurred. A detailed investigation is underway."
Haldia Petrochemicals also stated after the incident, saying an investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the accident and assess its impact.
Also Read | West Bengal set to introduce UCC Bill modelled on Assam law, reigniting political debate
The company said, "The exact cause of the incident is being investigated. Its impact is also being assessed." It added that ensuring the safety of employees and all concerned remains its immediate priority.
Rail services disrupted after overhead equipment damaged
The explosion also affected railway infrastructure as the pipeline runs alongside a railway track. According to reports, the overhead electric line, a transformer and a section of the railway line were damaged in the fire.
Rail movement has been disrupted following the incident. Railway authorities said the Haldia to Howrah passenger train has not been allowed to depart yet due to safety concerns, leaving daily commuters stranded.
