18 killed, several missing as massive fire breaks out at Pune chemical factory

Fire brigade personnel have rushed to the scene to control the raging flames and rescue those stuck inside, according to an NDTV report.

Media reports said the accident took place in the premises of SVS Aqua Technologies in Pune where six fire tenders have been pressed into action to extinguish the blaze.

Thick plume of smoke was seen issuing out of the sanitiser factory. Reports said people rushed to the gate to seek safety.

According to NDTV, 37 employees had been working inside the unit when the fire broke out; 20 of them were rescued, local fire officials said.

"The fire broke out during plastic packing. We have recovered 17 bodies- 15 women and two men- so far from the facility. Cooling off and search-and-rescue operations are underway," said Devendra Potphode, Chief Fire Officer, PMRDA Pune:

Media reports further added that 17 workers were missing after the fire broke out, company officials have said.

The fire is now under control and search and rescue operations have started to find the missing people, said an NDTV report.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condoled the deaths of the workers. "Pained by the loss of lives due to a fire at a factory in Pune, Maharashtra. Condolences to the bereaved families," he tweeted.

"The Prime Minister has announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh each from the PMNRF for the next of kin of those who have lost their lives due to fire at an industrial unit in Pune, Maharashtra. Rs. 50,000 would be provided to those injured,"said Prime Minister's Office.