A massive fire erupted at a chemical factory in Domjur, Howrah district, West Bengal, on Monday afternoon, causing widespread panic and a challenging firefighting operation. The blaze started around 2 PM at the factory located in South Jhaparda, Rajapur area, quickly engulfing the premises and threatening nearby factories and residential zones.

The Incident and Emergency Response

As the fire intensified, factory workers and people nearby rushed to evacuate the area. Some workers initially tried to control the fire using basic extinguishers but were overwhelmed by the flames. Emergency services responded swiftly, with at least 15 to 18 fire tenders deployed to the scene to battle the blaze. Firefighters faced tough conditions due to the highly flammable chemicals stored inside the factory, making containment difficult. Despite these challenges, no casualties have been reported so far, and all workers and staff inside the factory were safely evacuated.

The police and fire department continue to investigate the cause of the fire, which remains unknown. The incident occurred during a period when the factory was not in full production due to a workers’ strike, meaning fewer people were inside at the time. The fire department has brought the fire under control, and cooling operations are ongoing to prevent any rekindling.

Impact on the Community and Environment

The fire caused significant panic among local residents, many of whom gathered to watch the thick smoke rising from the industrial area. Roads near the site were diverted to ensure safety and allow emergency vehicles easy access. The presence of multiple adjoining factories raised fears of the fire spreading further, which firefighters worked hard to prevent.

Chemical factory fires pose serious risks beyond immediate fire damage. Toxic fumes and hazardous chemicals can affect air quality and health in surrounding areas, making quick containment vital. Though no injuries have been reported beyond minor cases, the potential for environmental harm remains a concern until the site is fully secured.

Broader Perspective

Industrial fires like this highlight the importance of strict safety protocols in factories handling hazardous materials. Regular safety audits, proper storage of chemicals, and emergency preparedness can reduce the risk and impact of such incidents. The ongoing investigation will hopefully shed light on whether safety norms were followed and what caused the fire.

The incident also underscores the challenges faced by firefighters who must operate in dangerous conditions with limited information about the chemicals involved. Their swift and coordinated response prevented a potentially larger disaster affecting more factories and residential areas.

Conclusion

The massive fire at the Domjur chemical factory was a serious incident that tested the readiness and resilience of emergency services. While the fire has been brought under control and no casualties reported, the event serves as a reminder of the hazards associated with chemical manufacturing and the need for vigilance in industrial safety.

Authorities continue to investigate the cause, and the community remains watchful as cooling and clean-up operations proceed. This incident calls for a balanced approach to industrial growth and safety, ensuring that economic activities do not compromise public health and environmental security.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies