Fire Breaks Out at Haldia Petrochemicals, At Least 19 Injured
IIE DIGITAL DESK ; June 30, 2026 | Haldia, West Bengal : Haldia Petrochemicals on Tuesday morning after a naphtha pipeline reportedly caught fire, triggering panic across the industrial zone. The blaze spread rapidly within moments, prompting a large-scale emergency response as multiple fire engines from nearby industrial units rushed to the spot to bring the situation under control.
The fire originated from a naphtha pipeline in the petrochemical complex and quickly intensified. Firefighters immediately launched containment operations to prevent the flames from spreading further into surrounding facilities. Authorities confirmed that there have been no fatalities so far, though several workers sustained injuries after being exposed to the fire.
The injured workers, some of whom suffered burn injuries, were immediately shifted to Haldia Sub-Divisional Hospital for treatment. Medical officials stated that the condition of several injured individuals is being closely monitored.
Due to the proximity of the industrial site to the Haldia–Mecheda railway line, overhead electric wires and transformers in the area were severely damaged in the fire. As a result, train services were disrupted as a precautionary measure, with the Haldia–Howrah local train unable to depart on schedule and remaining stranded at Haldia station.
The fire in the Chiranjeebpur area of Haldia damaged overhead railway equipment, including portions of the electrified line. In response, authorities cancelled the 38052 Haldia–Howrah local train service. The 38051 Howrah–Haldia local and the Asansol–Haldia Express were also diverted, with services terminating at Durgachak instead of entering Haldia. The Asansol–Haldia Express is expected to face delays due to operational disruptions.
Railway technical staff from the Traction Distribution (TRD) department reached the site for repair work but were unable to begin restoration due to the intensity of the fire. Officials stated that it is still unclear when normal train services will be restored, and passengers have been advised to check for updates before travel.
The number of injured individuals has risen to 19. According to Haldia Sub-Divisional Police sources, 10 injured persons have been admitted to Tamluk Hospital, 6 are undergoing treatment at Haldia Hospital, and 3 others were discharged after receiving primary care.
East Midnapore Superintendent of Police Anshuman Saha visited the hospital to review the condition of the injured and also inspected the fire-affected site. Officials from the port authority also rushed to the location following the incident.
Authorities have expressed concern as the fire occurred near multiple pipelines carrying highly flammable petrochemical products, including pipelines connected to Haldia Petronas. Officials warned that the presence of such infrastructure increases the risk factor, and safety assessments are currently underway to prevent further escalation or secondary incidents.
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