Indore witnessed two significant fire incidents in its industrial zones on Saturday morning, causing extensive structural damage but no casualties. The first fire broke out around 7 am at a plastic granule manufacturing factory on Dhar Road. The blaze escalated rapidly due to the presence of highly inflammable raw materials, sending thick black smoke visible from several kilometers away. The facility was closed at the time due to 'amavasya' (new moon day).
Short Circuit Triggers Fire at Plastic Factory
According to factory operator Mohammad Javed Qureshi, the fire was triggered by a short circuit in a nearby regional electricity distribution point, which quickly spread to the main unit. The Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) deployed seven fire tenders and specialized equipment, including a firefighting robot and earth moving machines, to douse the flames.
Firefighting Challenges and Response
Emergency teams used earthmovers to dismantle the factory's tin roofing to access the core of the fire. Deputy Fire Officer Ajay Kumar stated, "Due to lack of immediate water sources on site, over 45 water tankers were brought in from neighboring areas, with local residents supplying water from private tubewells." Firefighters employed a combination of water and chemical foam to contain the flames and prevent them from spreading to an adjacent herbal products factory.
Second Fire at Cotton Scrap Warehouse
A second fire incident was reported at a cotton scrap warehouse in the F-Sector of Sanwer Road industrial area. Firefighters were deployed to control the blaze at the warehouse. No casualties or injuries were reported from either location, though structural damage and property loss were estimated to be extensive, according to IMC Commissioner Kshitij Singhal.
Investigation Launched
The local administration has initiated an investigation to determine the exact causes of the fires and assess the units' adherence to industrial safety norms. Authorities are reviewing safety protocols and infrastructure to prevent future incidents.
