New Delhi: A team from the National Investigation Agency has reached the HPCL Rajasthan Refinery in Pachpadra to investigate a fire that broke out just a day before its scheduled inauguration by Narendra Modi.
The blaze occurred on April 20, prompting authorities to examine whether the incident was accidental or involved external interference. The NIA team, comprising intelligence personnel, forensic experts, and cyber specialists, has begun a detailed assessment of the site, focusing on the Crude Distillation Unit where the fire is believed to have originated.
Initial findings from the refinery operator indicate that a possible hydrocarbon leak from a valve or flange within the heat exchanger circuit may have triggered the fire. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has stated that the overall structure of the facility remains safe.
Alongside the central agency, the Rajasthan Anti Terrorism Squad has also conducted a site visit and interacted with refinery officials as part of the ongoing inquiry. The involvement of specialised agencies highlights the seriousness with which the incident is being treated, particularly given the strategic importance of the refinery.
The investigation comes at a time when multiple fires and explosions have been reported at energy installations across different parts of the world. Recent incidents in countries such as the United States, Mexico, Ecuador, Australia, and Iraq have drawn attention to a possible emerging pattern, especially amid ongoing tensions in West Asia that have already impacted global energy markets.
In India, a recent fire at the Mumbai High offshore platform further adds to the list of such events. While no direct link between these incidents has been established, the frequency has raised concerns among authorities.
As the probe continues, agencies are expected to closely examine all possible angles, including technical faults and potential sabotage, to determine the exact cause of the fire and ensure stronger safeguards for critical infrastructure.
