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7 workers killed in chemical factory fire in Rajasthan's Alwar
Preliminary estimates suggest that goods worth several lakhs of rupees were reduced to ashes. An assessment of the total loss is underway.
Seven people were burnt to death after a fire broke out at a closed factory in the Khushkhera industrial area in Rajasthan's Alwar district on Monday.
Fire officer Raju Khan said six fire tenders were rushed to the spot, and firefighting operations began immediately. Initial reports suggested that the factory had been shut for months. A large stock of cardboard was found stored at the factory.
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Around 10am, smoke was seen billowing from inside the factory, and within minutes, the fire intensified into a massive blaze. Eyewitnesses said three to four powerful explosions were heard, sparking panic. Gas cylinders stored inside the factory are suspected to have exploded, causing the blasts. The exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained.
As a precautionary measure, nearby factories were evacuated, and power supply to the area was temporarily suspended. The fire was largely brought under control, though cooling operations continued.
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Preliminary estimates suggest that goods worth several lakhs of rupees were reduced to ashes. An assessment of the total loss is underway.
Police have initiated an investigation to determine whether the fire was caused by a short circuit or any other reason. Authorities have directed other industrial units in the area to review and comply with safety standards to prevent such incidents.
Chief minister Bhajan Lal Sharma expressed sorrow over the loss of lives and issued instructions to the district administration to provide the best possible medical treatment to the injured.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the "tragic and deeply saddening" incident. "The fire mishap in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan, is tragic and deeply saddening. My condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured," he said, according to a X post on the PMO handle.
