A devastating fire broke out at a bitumen mixing plant in the Mekurjum Kalyanigram area of Udarband subdivision, Cachar district, late evening on November 14. The blaze, reportedly caused by an electric short circuit, led to extensive damage, completely gutting valuable machinery and stock.
🔥 Severity Escalated by Bitumen Stock
The incident occurred around 9:00 PM at a plant located within the Murilida GP (Ward No. 10). According to local witnesses, the fire’s intensity escalated rapidly due to the large quantity of bitumen barrels (also known as asphalt) stored on the premises. Bitumen is a highly combustible material, which fueled the blaze, quickly engulfing the entire unit.
The essential mixer machine used for the road-building material was reportedly reduced to ashes, resulting in a substantial financial loss for the plant owner.
🚒 Fire Brigade Response Averts Further Spread
Upon noticing the fierce flames, local residents immediately alerted the Udarband Police Station and the Fire Services. Fire tenders quickly arrived at the scene and launched an intensive operation to bring the raging fire under control.
The timely response by the fire brigade was crucial in preventing the fire from spreading to adjacent structures in the densely populated area.
🚧 Investigation Underway
While preliminary reports point towards an electrical short circuit as the cause of ignition, local authorities and police have initiated a detailed investigation to ascertain the exact circumstances of the fire and estimate the total financial damage. Incidents involving highly flammable materials like bitumen raise concerns about industrial safety protocols and electrical maintenance within such facilities.
No casualties have been reported in the incident, but the community is deeply concerned about the massive property loss incurred.
