Haldia Petrochemicals pipeline fire in West Bengal leaves several injured

Kolkata: A major fire broke out in a naphtha-carrying pipeline at the Haldia Petrochemicals Ltd (HPL) refinery in West Bengal's Purba Medinipur district early on Tuesday morning, leaving several people injured, sources said.

“Preliminary information suggests that the incident occurred due to a pipe leakage, which further spread to the LPG line of the neighbouring IPPL, getting impacted," HPL said in a statement.

“An unfortunate fire incident happened outside the plant in our naphtha pipeline at around 4.30 am today. A few individuals have reportedly sustained injuries, including some unauthorised dwellers staying in huts built in that area," the company said in the statement.


Unofficial sources said that the total number of injured is around 20. However, there is no official confirmation yet.

“Naphtha is a highly combustible and extremely flammable hydrocarbon, and the company has consistently cautioned local communities against any unauthorised access to or handling of petroleum products due to the serious safety risks involved," it said.

“The exact cause of the incident is currently under investigation in coordination with the relevant authorities. At this stage, it would be premature to comment further or attribute responsibility until the investigation is completed," the statement said. “We have received immense support from the local administration, SDRA and neighbouring industries. The fire is currently under control.”

Expressing solidarity with the injured, the company said, “Our thoughts are with those affected, and we are extending all our support to the injured by providing the best medical facilities and also cooperating with the local authorities.”

A total of 12 fire tenders were pressed into action and carried out the firefighting operations.

Eyewitnesses said that the fire was first detected around 5 a.m. on Tuesday. A pipeline carrying naphtha at the HPL refinery caught fire. It is not yet clear how the fire broke out.

“Safety remains our highest priority, and we will provide further updates as and when verified information becomes available," the company said.