Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) has refuted reports that a fire occurred at its Haldia Refinery, stating that the refinery is operating safely and normally. The incident took place in the early hours of Tuesday at a neighbouring industrial establishment, Haldia Petrochemicals Limited (HPL), near the south gate.
Incident Details
According to Purba Medinipur Superintendent of Police Angshuman Saha, police received information around 2:00 to 2:30 AM about a potential issue at a site where work was underway. Preliminary reports indicate 16 to 17 people were injured, with six sustaining serious injuries who have been shifted to hospital. SP Saha stated, “Preliminary information suggests a gas leak... We will investigate further to determine if there were any other underlying causes.”
Indian Oil's Response
In a statement on X, IOCL said, “Reports claiming that a fire occurred at IndianOil's Haldia Refinery today are incorrect. The incident occurred near the south gate of a neighbouring industrial establishment, and not at Haldia Refinery.” The company added, “Haldia Refinery is operating safely and normally, with all safety and operational protocols fully in place. As a responsible neighbouring industry, IndianOil is extending all possible firefighting assistance and support.”
HPL's Statement
Haldia Petrochemicals Limited issued a statement acknowledging the incident at its Haldia facility, in which a few people sustained injuries. The company noted, “Preliminary information suggests that the incident may have occurred in the vicinity of an unauthorised naphtha theft point located in the plant vicinity. The exact cause of the incident is currently under investigation in coordination with the relevant authorities.” HPL extended support to those affected and said it would cooperate with authorities.
Impact on Rail Services
South Eastern Railway reported that train movement between Haldia and Durgachak in the Kharagpur Division was suspended from 5:20 AM due to a gas pipe burst near Silpa Pravesh Gate. The Haldia-Howrah Local was cancelled on June 30, while the Howrah-Haldia Local was short-terminated at Durgachak. The Haldia-Panskura Local was short-originated from Durgachak.
