Mangaluru (Karnataka): A massive “explosion” occurred at the MRPL oil refinery near Jokatte near here on Wednesday, local residents claimed, with houses shaking and people reporting “tremor-like” sensations.
There were reports of a loud explosion followed by a large plume of thick black smoke that was apparently visible even from far-off places. The explosion reportedly occurred in the Jokatte area, where the refinery’s third plant is located. A large fire and thick smoke were seen emerging from the facility.
However, there was no official word from Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL) regarding the incident.
Fire tenders from the New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA), Kadri and Pandeshwar fire stations were rushed to the spot to contain the situation. According to unconfirmed reports, the explosion occurred at the Phase-III CST plant inside the MRPL premises.
According to preliminary information, the explosion is believed to have occurred at a plant reportedly operated by a women’s workforce. Rescue teams have reportedly been unable to reach the site due to the heavy fumes in the area.
A large number of people gathered near the refinery as emergency response teams launched rescue and firefighting operations. Officials were yet to issue a statement on casualties, the extent of damage or the cause of the explosion. Further details are awaited.
