On Saturday, a significant blaze erupted at a chemical factory in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, prompting widespread alarm. Fortunately, there have been no reported injuries or fatalities thus far.
The fire broke out in an industrial zone located in Loni, Ghaziabad.
Videos and images captured at the scene depicted billowing grey smoke originating from the chemical factory.
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Upon receiving information about the fire, a team from the fire department rushed to the scene and commenced extinguishing efforts.
During the preliminary investigation, it was determined that a fire started due to a short circuit at the chemical factory, where chemical drums are stored. As a result, in addition to a fire tender, foam tenders have been summoned to extinguish the blaze.
Two more factories caught fire due to explosions in drums stored in the chemical factory.
Upon witnessing the fierce blaze, over a dozen factories nearby have been evacuated, with all employees safely exiting. Currently, the fire has completely engulfed two factories—a chemical plant and a packaging facility.
Smoke can be seen three kilometers away as employees evacuate amid fears that some are trapped. The explosion sparked panic in the area. During the incident, employees were inside the factory when the fire erupted, prompting them to flee. The chemical nature of the factory accelerated the fire, trapping several employees.
Chief Fire Officer Rahul Pal reported that the fire started in Sector A-3 of the industrial area, originating in a chemical factory before spreading to a nearby facility. While most employees escaped early, three were initially trapped inside. Firefighters successfully rescued all three, and efforts are ongoing to contain the fire.