Three killed, over 40 injured in fire at IOC refinery in West Bengal

“In the motor spirit quality (MSQ) unit, during shutdown-related work, at around 14:50 hours, today an incident occurred. The primary cause seems to be a flash fire leading to burn injuries to 44 persons and 3 persons have unfortunately succumbed to their injuries,” read a statement issued by Haldia Refinery authorities.

The identities of the three deceased were yet to be ascertained, sources said. Preliminary first-aid was administered to the injured, who were later shifted to Haldia Refinery Hospital for treatment. Three of them succumbed at the hospital. With the help of a team of district administration officials, people on the premises were evacuated.

A green corridor was operationalised for shifting the injured to other medical institutes as required, sources said. They added that around 25 of the injured were shifted to Kolkata later in the day and more may be shifted.

Many of the injured have been identified as contract workers, including several migrants from Punjab and Rajasthan. “The fire was exacerbated by the presence of highly flammable substances in the area,” said a local police officer.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed grief over the incident. “Deeply anguished by the fire in IOC, Haldia. Three precious lives were lost and my thoughts are with the bereaved families in this hour of grief. Those injured are being brought to Kolkata through a green corridor. Government of West Bengal will extend all assistance to ensure their speedy recovery,” Banerjee tweeted on Tuesday.

“A probe should be done to find out whether any negligence has caused this tragedy,” said S K Ajgar Ali, Chairman-In-Council, Haldia Municipality.