A massive fire broke out at the Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) refinery in Visakhapatnam following reports of sudden explosion sounds at the facility. The fire resulted in thick smoke billowing over nearby neighbourhoods, prompting concern among residents.
The fire reportedly broke out at a sulphur pitch tank. Visuals of the fire that have emerged show a towering column of raging fire accompanied by thick smoke.
Visakhapatnam Police Commissioner Shankhabrata Bagchi confirmed the incident and said that the fire is confined to the tank and poses no threat to other sections of the refinery.
Following the incident, HPCL said in a statement that fire brigade personnel rushed to the spot and swiftly brought the blaze under control.
It also said there were no casualties and that all units at the refinery were operating safely.
"The fire was localised to the pitch tank area and was brought under control within a short time. There have been no casualties, and all units of the refinery are working safely," the statement said.
Fire Incident at HPCL Visakhapatnam Refinery A fire incident was reported at the pitch intermediate storage tank at Visakh Refinery of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), at around 10 PM on November 2, 2026. Fire & Safety Team of Visakh Refinery promptly activated the firefighting and emergency response measures. The fire was localized to pitch tank area and was brought under control within a short time. There has been no casualties. All the Units of the Refinery are working safely. HPCL remains committed to the highest standards of safety and emergency preparedness. @HardeepSPuri @TheSureshGopi @PetroleumMin @Secretary_MoPNG
— Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (@HPCL) November 2, 2026
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