RAJASTHAN: A large fire erupted at a refinery in Rajasthan merely a day ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s planned inauguration.
The refinery, situated in the Pichpadra area of Balotara district, has a history dating back to its foundation stone laid by Sonia Gandhi on September 22, 2013. The initial project cost was estimated at approximately ₹37,230 crore. After a change in government, Prime Minister Modi officially recommenced the project on January 16, 2018, with the budget increased to about ₹43,129 crore.
The facility is designed not only for fuel production but also for the manufacturing of significant downstream petrochemical products. Preliminary reports suggest that the fire started in the Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) section of the refinery. Authorities have stated that no casualties have been reported so far. Following the incident, thick black smoke was seen rising from the site.
Indian media has highlighted that this refinery is India’s first greenfield integrated refinery and petrochemical complex, a collaborative effort between India’s Petroleum Corporation Limited and the Rajasthan government.
