West Bengal: 20 injured after massive fire breaks out in naphtha-carrying pipeline at Haldia

Fire at Naptha pipeline in Haldia
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A major fire broke out in a naphtha pipeline at Haldia Petrochemicals Limited (HPL) in West Bengal’s Purba Medinipur district early on Tuesday, 30th June. Media reports suggest that 20 people have been injured. The fire started between 4:00 am and 4:30 am, sending thick black smoke into the sky. Officials said six of the injured are in critical condition, while there have been no reports of any deaths till now.

Soon after the fire broke out, 12 fire tenders were rushed to the spot to control the flames. Firefighters continued their operation for several hours as emergency teams secured the area. Local residents and refinery officials also joined the rescue efforts, helping move the injured to Haldia Sub-Divisional Hospital.

Some patients were later shifted to Contai, while those in critical condition were being taken to Kolkata for advanced treatment.

The fire also destroyed several shanties located close to the pipeline. Police said many of the injured were people living in these huts. Visuals from the site showed large flames and heavy smoke as rescue teams worked to bring the situation under control.

The company points to a possible theft spot

In a statement, Haldia Petrochemicals said the incident may have taken place near an unauthorised naphtha theft point in the plant’s surrounding area. The company explained that naphtha is a highly combustible and extremely flammable hydrocarbon and has repeatedly warned local communities not to handle or access petroleum products without permission because of the serious safety risks involved.

Cause yet to be confirmed

According to initial information, the fire may have started after a leak in the naphtha pipeline near the suspected theft point. However, the exact cause has not been confirmed.

Police said a detailed investigation is in progress, while HPL stated that the reason behind the incident is being examined with the help of the relevant authorities. The company added that it would be too early to fix responsibility until the investigation is completed.

Written by OpIndia Staff
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