Early in the morning on Tuesday, a massive fire erupted at Mivan Steel Limited in the Arang region of Raipur district, Chhattisgarh, causing panic among the locals in the area and a large-scale response to the crisis. It is said that the fire started when a suspected explosion occurred inside an industrial plant near Temple Hasoud.
Initial reports indicated that the authorities heard of the fire about 5.30am. In minutes, the fire blazed through much of the steel mill, producing dense black smoke that reached high into the air. The smoke rose from the ground in a column, stretching several kilometers high, which was a cause for concern for people in the surrounding areas.
Several fire companies were called in and promptly started work to put out the fire. The district administration, police and disaster response agencies officials have also arrived at the site to oversee rescuing and firefighting operations. Authorities have placed a cordon around the area, and emergency personnel are still fighting the fire.
Local people were quick to notice and alert authorities soon after the incident. The cause of the fire is still being investigated, however. There are no immediate reports of casualties or injuries, though an assessment is underway.
Tehsildar Vinod Sahu said that the fire, police and administrative teams are working on the ground to put the situation under control. Once the fire is extinguished, investigators will review the circumstances surrounding the fire and determine the extent of the damage.
The administration has pledged to take whatever steps are necessary to keep the public safe, but is closely watching the situation.