A significant fire erupted at a pharmaceutical manufacturing unit in Andhra Pradesh's Anakapalle district on Saturday evening, sending thick plumes of smoke into the sky but, fortunately, resulting in no injuries or loss of life.
Workers Evacuate as Flames Engulf Chemical Plant
The incident occurred at the SVS Chemical Industries plant located near Atchutapuram. According to initial reports, the blaze originated in the centrifugal unit of the facility. The flames quickly spread to an adjacent unit within the same industrial complex, creating a dangerous situation.
At the time of the fire outbreak, approximately 14 workers were present inside the plant. Alerted by the spreading fire, all personnel managed to evacuate the premises swiftly and safely. Their prompt action ensured that a potential tragedy was averted, with no casualties reported from the site.
Emergency Response and Official Investigation Launched
Upon receiving the alarm, the Anakapalle district police and fire services sprang into action. Fire tenders were rushed to the spot immediately. Firefighting personnel worked diligently to contain and eventually extinguish the raging blaze, preventing it from causing further damage to the surrounding area.
In the aftermath, authorities have initiated a thorough probe. Officials, including the factories inspector and representatives from the revenue and police departments, are scheduled to visit the site to determine the exact cause of the fire. Taking serious note of the incident, Andhra Pradesh Home Minister V. Anitha has ordered an official inquiry. The minister has directed officials to identify the precise reasons behind the mishap and to formulate measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
A Troubling Pattern in the Region
This fire accident marks the second such incident in the Anakapalle district within a short span. For context, a fire also broke out in a pharmaceutical unit at JNPC under the Parawada police station limits in January 2025. That incident, too, did not result in any fatalities. The recurrence of such events has raised concerns about industrial safety protocols and enforcement in the region's chemical and pharmaceutical manufacturing hubs.
The latest fire at SVS Chemical Industries underscores the critical need for stringent safety audits, regular equipment maintenance, and comprehensive emergency preparedness drills within high-risk industrial units to safeguard both workers and the surrounding community.
