Massive fire breaks out at chemical factory in Pune's Kurkumbh MIDC area; firetenders on spot

Pune: A massive fire broke out at a chemical factory in Kurkumbh MIDC area in Pune on Friday. At least five firetenders were pressed into the service after the fire department received a call. 

A cloud of thick black smoke was billowing from a large fire that broke out at the chemical plant, triggering a panic-like situation in the area. According to reports, explosions could be heard in the 5-km periphery of the unit. On receiving the information, a team of Pune Police was also rushed to the site.   

According to reports, a few people are feared trapped inside the factory; however, the exact number and confirmation on the same remains awaited.

Supriya Sule took to Twitter and said "Kusum Chemicals in Kurkumbh MIDC is on Fire.I spoke with Shri. Naval Kishore Ram-Pune District Collector. Administration has started the Relief Work. I am monitoring the situation and co-ordinating. Relief measures along with the Administration. I urge all the citizens not to panic."

No casualty was reported in the incident as the plant, a fire brigade official said. He added that drums containing acetone and ethanol were kept at the plant. "As the fire spread, those drums caught fire and exploded. A blanket of thick black smoke engulfed the area after the blaze. Nobody was injured in the incident as the plant was shut," the official said.