Indian Oil Corporation Refinery Fire in West Bengal Injures Over 20, Disrupts Train Services

(CNA) - A naphtha pipeline at a refinery in India's West Bengal state caught fire early this morning, injuring over 20 people. The cause of the fire is under investigation, but it is suspected to be related to naphtha theft.

A naphtha pipeline near a refinery in Haldia, West Bengal, erupted in flames. Footage from the scene showed thick black smoke billowing into the sky. Twelve fire trucks were dispatched, and personnel are working to control the blaze, with firefighting operations ongoing.

A police officer told India Today that the fire injured over 20 people, five of whom are in serious condition. Most of the injured are local residents, including two refinery security guards. Some of the injured are receiving treatment locally, while others have been transferred to hospitals in Kolkata.

Officials stated that firefighters are using foam and dry powder extinguishers to combat the fire originating from the refinery's pipeline, "hoping the fire will be extinguished soon." They added, "We suspect a leak in the naphtha pipeline caused the fire, but the exact cause will only be known after the official investigation report is released."

The fire has affected local railway equipment, leading to the disruption of train services.

Following the fire, refinery employees and local residents quickly joined rescue efforts. Firefighters arrived promptly and rescued the injured, some of whom are in critical condition due to severe injuries.

Reports indicate that the refinery where the pipeline caught fire stated that the ignition point might be near the refinery, at an unauthorized location suspected of naphtha theft.

The refinery emphasized that naphtha is a highly flammable substance and reiterated warnings against unauthorized contact or handling of petroleum-related products due to significant safety concerns.

The refinery where the fire occurred is the fourth refinery owned by Indian Oil Corporation Ltd., located in West Bengal, approximately 136 kilometers from the capital, Kolkata.

The refinery covers 612 acres and began production in 1975, with an annual output of approximately 2.5 million tons. (Editor: Chang Chih-hsuan) 1150630

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