JAISALMER: The massive fire that broke out at the Pachpadra refinery just ahead of its historic inauguration has taken a serious turn, with the case likely to be handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). According to sources, an NIA team is expected to reach Pachpadra by this afternoon to begin its investigation. In addition, a special team from the Union Home Ministry is also arriving at the accident site today. On Monday, Rajasthan chief minister Bhajan Lal Sharma ordered a high-level inquiry into the incident and is himself scheduled to visit Pachpadra.The fire in a critical section of the refinery, particularly the CDU (Crude Distillation Unit), has raised serious concerns over safety protocols and operational preparedness. Authorities are now probing all possible angles—whether the incident was caused by negligence, a technical fault, or a deliberate act.Given the strategic importance of the refinery and the timing of the incident—just a day before the proposed inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi—the matter has become highly sensitive. The refinery is considered a key project for strengthening India’s energy security and boosting regional economic growth.Preliminary reports suggest that the fire originated in the CDU–VDU (Crude and Vacuum Distillation Unit) section, possibly due to a technical fault in a heat exchanger. However, the exact cause of the fire has not yet been officially confirmed.Officials stated that the NIA will conduct a comprehensive investigation, examining technical data, on-site evidence, and security aspects. The agency may also question refinery staff, contractors, and other stakeholders associated with the project.In its statement, HPCL said that the fire broke out in the Crude Distillation Unit section of the Rajasthan Refinery Limited at Pachpadra.Prima facie, the incident appears to have been caused by a hydrocarbon leak from a valve or flange in the heat exchanger circuit. The fire was brought under control immediately, and no casualties or injuries were reported. The blaze remained confined to the heat exchanger stack, and other units, including the CDU and Vacuum Distillation Unit, were promptly isolated. All these units are structurally safe and unaffected.Following the incident, security has been tightened across the refinery premises, and access to the affected area has been restricted. The findings of the investigation will be crucial in determining accountability and preventing such incidents in the future.
