At least seven people were killed in a major fire at a chemical manufacturing unit in Bhiwadi of Rajasthan, on Monday morning. Two others were feared trapped inside the factory premises, according to officials, reported the IANS.
The fire broke out at around 9.30 am at plot number G-1-118 B in the Khushkheda Industrial Area.
Around 25 workers were reportedly present when the blaze started.
Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan expressed deep sorrow over the incident.
“Deeply saddened by the tragic fire incident in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan. Heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, and prayers for the speedy recovery of those injured,” he said in a post on X.
PM Modi, CM express grief
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his condolences. The Prime Minister’s Office quoted him as saying, “The fire mishap in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan, is tragic and deeply saddening. My condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured.”
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma described the incident as heartbreaking. He said the district administration had been directed to carry out relief and rescue operations and prayed for the peace of the departed souls.
Fire spread rapidly
According to initial reports, the blaze erupted suddenly inside the private industrial unit and spread quickly, engulfing large parts of the factory within minutes.
The RIICO Fire Brigade received information from the police control room at about 9.22 am and responded immediately. Fire engines from the Khushkheda and Bhiwadi fire stations were rushed to the spot.
Firefighters battled the flames for nearly one and a half hours before bringing the situation under control.
Rescue and investigation underway
Additional District Magistrate Sumita Mishra said the fire was first noticed during routine police patrol in the area. Rescue operations began soon after confirmation.
Police personnel, fire brigade teams, medical staff and administrative officials reached the site quickly and sealed off the area to carry out relief work.
Several bodies were recovered in a charred condition. The injured were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the fire. Tijara Deputy Superintendent of Police Shivraj Singh is leading the initial investigation. Senior district officials are also reviewing the situation.
The district administration has ordered a magisterial inquiry to determine the cause of the blaze and examine whether there were any lapses in safety measures.
The incident has left the industrial area in panic.
(with IANS inputs)