More than 20 people were injured after a massive naphtha pipeline fire in Haldia, prompting investigations, firefighting efforts, and railway disruptions.

A West Bengal fire at a naphtha pipeline linked to Haldia Petrochemicals left more than 20 people injured, including five critically, after a massive blaze erupted in East Midnapore district early Tuesday. The fire broke out around 2:45 am and quickly spread to Chiranjibpur in Ward 13 of Haldia Municipality, damaging several houses and disrupting railway services. More than 12 fire engines were deployed to control the blaze, while authorities launched an investigation into the incident. Officials suspect a pipeline leak may have triggered the fire, although the exact cause remains under investigation.

Key Highlights

  • More than 20 people injured in massive pipeline blaze.

  • Five victims remain in critical condition at hospitals.

  • Fire spread rapidly into nearby residential neighbourhoods.

  • Railway services disrupted after electrical equipment damage.

  • Investigation launched to determine exact cause of fire.

Massive Blaze Leaves Over 20 Injured

The fire spread rapidly after a reported burst in the naphtha pipeline, engulfing nearby homes and prompting a large-scale emergency response. Police confirmed that over 20 people, including two Haldia Petrochemicals security personnel, sustained injuries.

Five victims were reported to be in critical condition, while around 10 injured people were transferred to Kolkata hospitals, including SSKM Hospital, NRS Medical College and Hospital, and private medical facilities for specialized healthcare.

Emergency responders secured the area as firefighters continued operations throughout the morning. Local MLA Pradip Bijli visited the site and said a leakage in the pipeline triggered the burst, though investigators have yet to determine what ignited the highly flammable naphtha.

Investigation Underway as Rail Services Disrupted

The Haldia refinery fire also damaged overhead railway equipment, transformers, and electrical lines near the site, disrupting train operations between Haldia and Panskura and delaying services to Howrah. Railway officials are assessing the extent of the damage before restoring normal operations.

The Naphtha pipeline fire is now under formal investigation. In a statement, Haldia Petrochemicals said preliminary findings indicate the incident may have originated near an unauthorized naphtha theft point close to its plant. The company reiterated that naphtha is an extremely flammable hydrocarbon and has repeatedly warned local communities against unauthorized handling of petroleum products. It added that ensuring the safety of employees and residents remains its top priority and emphasized that responsibility cannot be determined until the investigation is complete.

Thus, Business Fortune is of the view that the West Bengal fire underscores the urgent need for stronger industrial safety measures and stricter pipeline monitoring.

FAQs

What caused the West Bengal fire?

Officials suspect a naphtha pipeline leak, but the exact cause is still under investigation.

How many people were injured?

More than 20 people were injured, including five who remain in critical condition.

Where did the incident occur?

The fire occurred near Haldia Petrochemicals in East Midnapore district, West Bengal.

Why were train services disrupted?

The blaze damaged railway electrical infrastructure, causing delays and service disruptions.

What has Haldia Petrochemicals said?

The company said preliminary findings point to a possible unauthorized naphtha theft point and is cooperating fully with investigators.