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Business
Major fire erupts at HPCL Visakhapatnam refinery near oil tank
✍️ The Times of India
🗓 03 Nov 2026, 11:36 AM
👁 20
A large fire broke out at Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited's Visakhapatnam refinery near an oil storage tank, with initial reports of an explosion being examined.
A major blaze erupted at Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) Visakhapatnam refinery, originating close to an oil storage tank. The incident was first reported by on‑site personnel who observed flames and thick smoke spreading across the plant perimeter.
Fire‑fighting units from the refinery, supported by local emergency services, were deployed within minutes. HPCL officials confirmed that teams were working to contain the fire and prevent it from reaching other critical units. The company issued a brief statement assuring that safety protocols were being followed and that the situation was under control.
Initial media reports suggested an explosion may have accompanied the fire, but HPCL and the district administration said the claim was being investigated. No official confirmation of an explosion or any injuries has been released so far.
The refinery, a key supplier of petroleum products in Andhra Pradesh, temporarily halted operations in the affected area while the fire is extinguished. Authorities are monitoring the incident closely to assess any potential impact on regional fuel supply.
Fire‑fighting units from the refinery, supported by local emergency services, were deployed within minutes. HPCL officials confirmed that teams were working to contain the fire and prevent it from reaching other critical units. The company issued a brief statement assuring that safety protocols were being followed and that the situation was under control.
Initial media reports suggested an explosion may have accompanied the fire, but HPCL and the district administration said the claim was being investigated. No official confirmation of an explosion or any injuries has been released so far.
The refinery, a key supplier of petroleum products in Andhra Pradesh, temporarily halted operations in the affected area while the fire is extinguished. Authorities are monitoring the incident closely to assess any potential impact on regional fuel supply.