Massive fire at HPCL refinery in Visakhapatnam after explosion sounds; thick smoke engulfs area
A massive fire broke out at the Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) refinery in Visakhapatnam following reports of explosion sounds at the facility, sending thick plumes of smoke into the sky and raising concerns among residents in surrounding areas.
The blaze reportedly originated at a sulphur pitch tank within the refinery. Dramatic visuals from the site showed towering flames accompanied by dense smoke billowing over the industrial facility.
Fire confined to sulphur pitch tank
Visakhapatnam Police Commissioner Shankhabrata Bagchi confirmed the incident and said the fire was currently confined to the affected tank.
He clarified that the blaze had not spread to other sections of the refinery and that there was no immediate threat to the remaining facility.
HPCL fire tenders, along with additional firefighting teams, have been deployed to contain the fire. Emergency personnel are continuing efforts to bring the situation under control.
A massive explosion reportedly occurred at an oil refinery in Visakhapatnam, triggering a major fire. Huge flames were seen billowing from the facility, while thick smoke engulfed the surrounding area. The incident has triggered panic among residents in nearby localities. The cause of the explosion, the extent of the damage and details of any casualties are yet to be ascertained. Further details are awaited.
— Sowmith Yakkati (@YakkatiSowmith) November 2, 2026
No casualties reported; authorities monitor situation
Authorities said the smoke generated by the fire was not considered hazardous. No deaths have been reported so far.
The incident nevertheless triggered concern among residents in nearby neighbourhoods, particularly after reports of explosion-like sounds and visuals of the massive flames emerged.
Firefighting operations are ongoing, with officials closely monitoring the situation to prevent the blaze from spreading to other parts of the refinery.
Further details about the cause of the fire and the extent of damage are awaited.
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