As many as seven persons are reported dead after a major fire broke out at a chemical factory in the Khushkhera industrial area of Rajasthan's Bhiwadi town. According to initial information, some individuals are feared trapped inside the factory. The incident occurred on Monday morning at Plot No. G-1-118B in a private industrial unit.
Burnt bodies have been recovered from the factory premises.
According to officials, the information was received by the RIICO fire brigade from the police control room at 9:22 am. The blaze rapidly escalated within minutes, engulfing the unit in flames.
Preliminary reports indicate that around six workers were burned to death on the spot. The intensity of the fire was so severe that several bodies were recovered in a skeletal condition.
Upon receiving the alert, police officials, administrative authorities, fire brigade teams, rescue personnel, and medical staff rushed to the scene. The area was cordoned off, and rescue and relief operations were immediately initiated.
Additional District Magistrate Sumita Mishra stated that the incident came to light during a routine police patrol, after which authorities promptly initiated a rescue operation.
"Nine people were trapped inside. Seven bodies have been taken out so far," she said.
Injured shifted to hospital, probe launched
The injured have been shifted to a hospital for treatment. An investigation into the cause of the fire has been launched. The administration has indicated that a magisterial inquiry will be conducted into the incident.
PM Modi expresses anguish
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep pain over the mishap. He expressed condolances to the families of the victims.
"The fire mishap in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan, is tragic and deeply saddening. My condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured: PM," the X post by PMO read.
CM Bhajanlal issues instructions to officials
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma has expressed anguish over the fire incident. He said instructions have been issued to the district administration to proactively launch relief and rescue operation in the affected area.
"The news of the loss of lives due to a fire in a factory in the Khushkheda Industrial Area of Bhiwadi is extremely heartbreaking. The district administration has been directed to carry out relief and rescue operations. I pray to God for the peace of the departed souls and wish for the swift recovery of the injured," he posted on X.
