Massive fire erupts in chemical factory

A major fire broke out at a chemical factory in Industrial Area Phase-2 here on Monday, sending thick plumes of smoke into the sky and prompting a large-scale emergency response.

The incident occurred at Plot No 124, where a factory reportedly engaged in ink production was suddenly engulfed in flames.

The Fire Department received the first call at 3.05 pm, according to officials from the Fire Station in Sector 5. A massive firefighting operation was launched, with seven to eight fire tenders dispatched from Sector 5, two from Sector 20, one from Barwala and two from Mani Majra in Chandigarh.

All employees were outside the factory when the firefighters reached the spot and no injuries were reported. The local police cordoned off the area as a precautionary measures.

Leading the operation, Fire Station Officer Tarsem from Sector 5 coordinated the team, who battled the flames for over two-and-a-half hours. Officials said it was a significant fire incident and about 30 foam cans were needed to fully extinguish the blaze.

The exact cause of the fire remains unknown. An investigation is underway. The authorities stated that the factory owner was unable to give any useful details to aid the inquiry. Safety concerns at industrial units handling flammable substances have again come under scrutiny.