3 killed, 44 hurt in IOC’s refinery fire
Injured shifted to Kolkata
At least three persons were charred to death while 44 others suffered burn injuries in a devastating fire that broke out at the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) refinery in Haldia of East Midnapore in West Bengal on Tuesday afternoon. All of them are workers. Among the injured, more than three dozen were shifted to Kolkata. Chief minister Mamata Banerjee mourned the loss of lives.
The incident took place after a mock drill at the
plant. A pipe carrying Naptha exploded with the chemical coming in contact with the flashing flames from welding
works which were underway nearby, said Haldia municipality chairmanin-council Asgar Ali. Soon flames and darks columns of smoke around a tower inside the refinery became visible from outside. Initially, two fire engines were rushed to the spot.
The IOC said in a statement, “Haldia Refinery is undertaking shutdown and maintenance of various major units. In the MSQ unit, during shutdown-related works, at around 1450 hrs, today an incident occurred. The primary cause seems to be a flash fire leading to burn injuries to 44 persons and 3 persons have unfortunately succumbed to their injuries. The fire has been immediately extinguished and the situation is under control.”
Ms Banerjee tweeted, “Deeply anguished by the fire in IOC, Haldia. Three precious lives were lost and my thoughts are with the bereaved families in this hour of grief. Those injured are being brought to Kolkata through a green corridor. GoWB will extend all assistance to ensure their speedy recovery.”
Superintendent of police (East Midnapore) Amarnath K. said, “37 among the injured were sent to Kolkata for treatment.”