Fire tenders douse flames at a PVC godown in Bahadurgarh town of Jhajjar district. Tribune Photo

A massive fire broke out at a PVC warehouse located in Bahadurgarh industrial town here on Saturday, causing widespread panic in the area. The fire was so intense that thick black smoke engulfed the sky and was visible from a distance.

On receiving the alert, two fire brigade vehicles rushed to the spot and immediately began firefighting operations. However, due to the highly flammable nature of the plastic and rubber scrap stored inside the warehouse, firefighters faced significant challenges in bringing the blaze under control.

According to sources, the fire erupted suddenly at the warehouse, situated on Jhajjar Road, due to unknown reasons. Within minutes, the flames consumed the entire stock of PVC and rubber scrap stored on the premises, resulting in damage.

The fire also posed a serious threat to adjacent businesses, including a car sale/purchase centre and a motor workshop. Fortunately, timely action by the fire personnel prevented the blaze from spreading further. The vehicles parked in the vicinity were swiftly moved out to avoid any damage.

The incident has drawn attention from the district administration. Taking serious note of the matter, Deputy Commissioner Swapnil Ravindra Patil ordered immediate action against all illegal PVC godowns operating in the district. He instructed the SDM Bahadurgarh, District Municipal Commissioner, Jhajjar, and local officials of the Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) to launch a special drive to seal all such unauthorised facilities.

Local office of the HSPCB has already issued a notice to the owner of the illegal godown and initiated legal proceedings as per environmental regulations. DC Patil further stated that a ban on illegal storage and transport of plastic waste was already in place in Bahadurgarh.

He warned that not only violators but also officials who neglect their duties or ignored the government orders in the future would face strict action.