Mangaluru: At least eight people were injured in an explosion at the Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL) complex near Mangaluru in Karnataka on Wednesday, triggering panic in nearby areas as the powerful blast shook buildings and windows several kilometres from the refinery.
The explosion was reported from MRPL’s Coker Heavy Gas Oil Hydrotreating (CHT) unit, according to information released after the incident. MRPL’s own technical documents identify CHT as the Coker Heavy Gas Oil Hydrotreating Unit.
An MRPL official said a contract worker, Rajesh Baptist, suffered 35 per cent burn injuries and was shifted to Srinivasa Hospital for treatment. Doctors said he was out of danger.
Blast Shakes Mangaluru International Airport, Nearby Buildings
The intensity of the explosion was felt in several areas around the MRPL complex. The administrative office building of Mangaluru International Airport at Bajpe was reportedly shaken, with the impact also felt by airport staff.
Windows at the airport’s administrative building were shaken by the blast, causing brief panic among people at the premises.
The explosion was also felt in Jokatte village, which is located adjacent to the MRPL complex. Doors and windows at the Jokatte Gram Panchayat office and nearby houses were reportedly damaged following the blast.
Thick black smoke was seen rising from the MRPL premises after the incident and was visible from several kilometres away. Reports said the blast produced a loud boom that was heard across parts of Mangaluru.
Explosion Reported at CHT Unit
The incident took place at the CHT unit of the refinery. The Coker Heavy Gas Oil Hydrotreating Unit is one of the processing units at MRPL and forms part of the refinery’s secondary processing facilities. MRPL commissioned the unit as part of its Phase III refinery expansion.
The exact cause of Wednesday’s explosion and the full extent of damage are yet to be established. Authorities and the refinery management are expected to assess the incident and determine the circumstances that led to the blast.
Investigation and Safety Assessment Underway
The explosion caused concern in areas surrounding the refinery after the sound and impact were felt well beyond the MRPL premises.
The condition of the other injured persons and further details about the incident are expected as authorities and MRPL officials provide more information.
The incident comes at a major refinery complex located north of Mangaluru city in Dakshina Kannada district. MRPL is a subsidiary of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC).