MANGALURU: A powerful explosion followed by a fire was reported at the Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL) complex on Wednesday afternoon, leaving at least eight people injured and triggering strong tremors in nearby areas.
The incident reportedly occurred at the Hydro Sulphur Treatment Unit of the MRPL plant. The explosion was followed by a fire and a huge plume of smoke that rose over the facility. Residents said the smoke could be seen from several kilometres away.
The impact of the blast was felt well beyond the refinery premises. Strong tremors were reported in Jokatte and Surathkal, with reports of damage to windows and doors of some houses in the affected areas.
Residents in Jokatte said their houses shook violently following the explosion. Damage was also reported at a Gram Panchayat office in the area.
Strong vibrations were reportedly felt inside the administrative building of Mangaluru Airport as well. The sound of the explosion and the resulting tremors caused concern among residents in several parts of the city.
Eight Injured in Explosion
At least eight people were injured in the incident, according to the available information. They were taken to hospitals for treatment.
Contract worker Rajesh Baptist, who reportedly suffered burns over around 35 per cent of his body, was admitted to the intensive care unit. Doctors said his condition was subsequently reported to be out of danger.
Some people who were inside a nearby office also reportedly suffered minor injuries.
Fire and emergency response teams from across the city reached the MRPL complex soon after the incident was reported. Rescue and firefighting operations were launched immediately to bring the situation under control.
Fire Brought Under Control
Police Commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy said the fire at the site had been brought under control. MRPL authorities also stated that there had been no fatalities in the incident.
As a precautionary measure, major hospitals in the area were placed on alert to deal with any additional casualties if required.
Authorities and public representatives urged residents not to panic and appealed against the circulation of unverified information regarding the incident.
Cause of Explosion Under Investigation
The exact cause of the explosion has not yet been established. Investigators are examining the circumstances that led to the blast, including whether a technical failure occurred in a particular section of the plant.
Officials are also assessing the extent of damage caused by the explosion and fire.
The incident at the major petroleum refinery triggered strong reactions in surrounding areas after the blast sent shockwaves across parts of Mangaluru, while thick smoke from the MRPL complex remained visible from a considerable distance.
