Several people are feared trapped after a fire broke out at a factory in Thane's Dombiwali near Mumbai following a massive blast on Thursday. The fire occurred after a boiler inside the chemical factory located in MIDC Phase 2 exploded, officials said. Eight people have died and at least 60 were injured in the massive explosion.
Witnesses reported hearing three blasts at the factory. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister said at least eight people have been rescued. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and other officials visited the site.
"The incident of a boiler explosion at Amudan Chemical Company in Dombivli MIDC is tragic. Eight people involved in this incident have been rescued. Arrangements have been made to treat the injured and more ambulances have been kept ready. I have discussed this with the collector and they are reaching the spot within 10 minutes. Teams of NDRF, TDRF, and fire brigade have been called," Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said.
"I pray to God for the speedy recovery of the injured," he added.
Explosion Forms Big Crater
The impact of the explosion formed a big crater at the spot and the shockwaves produced by the blast damaged adjacent factories and shattered glass windows.
The shockwave and the heat produced by the boiler blast caused heavy iron beams to bend. The roofs of adjacent factories blew off causing massive damage.
The sound of the explosion was heard from a kilometre away and a Sai Temple near the blast site suffered the impact of the shockwaves. Several devotees were present inside the temple, participating in a ritual. They managed to escape to safety.
Some people are reportedly trapped and rescue teams are using drones to locate them.
Around 15 engines were deployed to douse the flames and the operation is underway. Officials estimate it would take over four hours to extinguish the fire.
The impact of the blast shattered the windows of the houses nearby. The fire has spread to two other buildings including a car showroom.
A distress call was made around 1:40 pm. According to preliminary reports, several vehicles and houses have been damaged in the explosion.
"We are waiting for more people to be rescued. The workers on the day shift were inside the factory when the explosion occurred. It is unknown how many people are stuck inside," Dr Nikhil Patil had said.
Chief Minister Takes Action
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde ordered the closing of red-category units. The Chief Minister said an ABC classification of companies will take place and thousands of high-intensity units will be closed.
The Chief Minister said a case of culpable homicide should be registered and the victims will be Rs 5 lakh as compensation to families of the victims and the state government will bear the medical expenses of the injured.
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