Published Nov 03, 2026 | 8:53 AM ⚊ Updated Nov 03, 2026 | 8:53 AM
The accident took place at the RUF (DAR) pit unit within the refinery's recently expanded project.
Panic gripped the industrial hub of Visakhapatnam on Monday night after a massive explosion at the Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) Visakha Refinery. The blast occurred around 9:50 PM, sending huge flames and thick plumes of black smoke into the sky and leaving nearby residents terrified.
Preliminary reports indicate that the accident took place at the RUF (DAR) pit unit within the refinery’s recently expanded project. A waste oil tank located beneath the sulphur tanks reportedly exploded with a loud bang, causing the fire to spread rapidly. The sight of massive flames across the refinery premises triggered widespread anxiety among locals.
Upon receiving the alert, the refinery’s firefighting personnel immediately swung into action. Fire engines from neighbouring industrial units were also pressed into service to help contain the blaze. After hours of intensive effort, firefighters reduced the intensity of the fire and gradually brought the flames under control past midnight.
Dense black smoke emitted from the fire enveloped the residential areas of Sriharipuram and Malkapuram. Although residents initially assumed the flames were from routine chimney flaring, the towering fire soon made the severity of the accident clear. Residents from nearby localities alleged that the refinery management failed to sound even a basic warning siren when the accident occurred.
Following the blast, Visakhapatnam West MLA Ganababu contacted refinery officials to assess the situation, while the West Zone ACP and local police inspected the site. Malkapuram police confirmed there were no fatalities. As a precaution, the adjacent Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) terminal also activated safety protocols.
However, key questions remain regarding what triggered the waste oil tank explosion and whether mandatory safety protocols were breached.
(Edited by Fayisa CA)
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