Massive fire at chemical unit in Gujarat's Bharuch triggers explosions

A fire at Morudia Chemicals in Bharuch's Saykha GIDC set off repeated solvent drum explosions. All workers got out safely, but the blasts panicked nearby units before firefighters contained the blaze.

In Short

• Four fire tenders battle intense blaze fuelled by stored solvents
• Explosions trigger panic among workers at neighbouring industrial units
• Firefighters control blaze after nearly two hours of sustained efforts

A major fire broke out at a chemical manufacturing unit in the Saykha GIDC industrial area of Vagra in Gujarat’s Bharuch district, triggering a series of explosions and causing panic among nearby industrial units. However, no injuries were reported as workers at the facility managed to escape safely.

The incident occurred at Morudia Chemicals, where a large quantity of solvents was reportedly stored. The fire quickly spread through the premises, causing solvent drums to explode one after another with loud blasts. Thick smoke rose high above the industrial area and could be seen from a considerable distance.

According to preliminary information, seven to eight employees were present at the facility when the fire broke out. As the flames intensified and explosions began, the workers evacuated the premises in time. Their timely escape prevented what could have been a major industrial accident.

The explosions also alarmed employees and residents in neighbouring areas and companies. Following information about the fire, four tenders were rushed to the site to contain the blaze.

Firefighters began operations immediately and worked for nearly two hours to prevent the flames from spreading to other parts of the facility or nearby units.

The presence of a substantial quantity of solvents made firefighting operations challenging, as the combustible material contributed to the rapid spread and intensity of the fire. Firefighters eventually succeeded in bringing the blaze under control after sustained efforts.

Authorities are expected to ascertain the cause of the fire and assess the extent of damage to the chemical unit. The incident has once again highlighted the risks associated with the storage and handling of flammable chemicals in densely packed industrial zones.

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