Pachpadra Refinery Fire: blaze breaks out a day before PM Modi inauguration

In line with strict safety protocols, the entire refinery premises was evacuated immediately. All employees working in the affected CDU unit and nearby areas were safely brought out. As of now, no casualties or injuries have been reported.

The refinery was set to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday, April 21. The fire occurred just a day before the high-profile event. The section where the fire broke out is approximately 800 metres away from the main inauguration venue where the Prime Minister was scheduled to address the gathering. Following the incident, the entire visit and inauguration programme has been postponed as a precautionary measure.

HPCL Rajasthan Refinery Limited officials stated that a detailed assessment of the damage and the exact cause of the fire will only be possible once the area is fully secured and cooled down. An internal inquiry has already been initiated, and additional security has been deployed across the complex.

The CDU is one of the most critical units in any refinery. It is here that crude oil arriving through pipelines is initially processed and separated before being sent to other downstream units for further refining. The unit was in the testing and pre-commissioning phase when the incident occurred.

The Pachpadra project, with an estimated investment exceeding ₹79,450 crore, is designed to have a capacity of 9 million metric tonnes per annum. Once operational, it is expected to significantly strengthen India’s energy security while generating thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities in Rajasthan.

Local residents and workers expressed concern over the sudden development, but many also appreciated the swift response of the fire services and management in ensuring zero casualties. District administration appealed to people to avoid spreading rumours and rely only on official updates.

As of Monday evening, the situation at the refinery remains under control. Firefighting teams continue to monitor the site to prevent any re-ignition. Further updates on the extent of damage, cause of the fire, and the rescheduled inauguration date are expected once the investigation progresses.

The postponement of the Prime Minister’s visit underscores the priority being given to safety and thorough assessment before any public event at the sensitive industrial facility. Authorities have assured that the inauguration will be held at the earliest possible date once all clearances and safety certifications are in place.