A significant incident occurred at Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL) in Jokatte near Mangaluru on Wednesday, involving a blast followed by a major fire. One employee reportedly sustained severe burn injuries, while six others received minor injuries. The blast took place around noon at the refinery’s Coker Hydrotreater (CHT) unit.

The injured employee, identified as Rajesh Baptist, suffered burns covering approximately 35 per cent of his body. Following the incident, he was promptly transported to Srinivasa Hospital and admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Medical professionals indicated that his condition is stable and he is no longer in danger. The other six individuals, who were located in an adjacent office, were treated for minor injuries on an outpatient basis.

Cause Of The Explosion Under Investigation

Officials from MRPL stated that the incident was triggered by the rupture of a cold separator operating at about 70 bar pressure within the Coker Hydrotreater unit. This rupture led to the fire, prompting an immediate isolation of the unit’s battery limits. Firefighting teams were activated and workers were evacuated from the area.

A spokesperson for MRPL acknowledged the presence of a considerable fire within the unit, but could not initially confirm whether an explosion had occurred. The spokesperson noted that there was no indication of external suspicious activity, suggesting that the cause could be an internal malfunction. Personnel were engaged in efforts to contain the fire.

Authorities have stated that a detailed investigation will be undertaken to establish the precise cause of the separator’s failure. Emergency measures are in place to ensure safety within the facility.

Panic Spreads In Surrounding Areas

The blast created a wave of panic among residents in nearby areas, including Katipalla, Kana, Bajpe, Angaragundi, Kulai, and Jokatte. Onlookers reported hearing a loud explosion sound, after which thick black smoke was observed emanating from the MRPL site. Some local residents noted damage to window panes in their vicinity, related to the blast.

Local authorities assessed the situation and reassured the public that there was no immediate cause for alarm. They are monitoring developments as they unfold. Fire tenders from the New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) and Karnataka Fire and Emergency Services promptly arrived at the scene to manage the fire and mitigate the risk of further damage.

The fire was eventually brought under control, though cooling operations were expected to continue for an extended period. Oversight from emergency services has ensured that the situation remains stable.

Safety Measures Implemented At Mangaluru Airport

In light of the incident, Mangaluru International Airport initiated precautionary safety inspections following a recommendation from the Dakshina Kannada district administration. Inspections included visual assessments of critical airport installations and peripheral roads to ensure operational continuity.

The review encompassed essential infrastructure, such as the Precision Approach Lighting Category-I system, among others. Senior district officials and police were present at the site as emergency teams continued to manage the incident.

Authorities have assured the public that conditions are stable and further updates will be provided as investigations continue regarding the underlying causes of the incident at the refinery.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share