A massive explosion has been reported at the premises of Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL) in Mangaluru, triggering widespread panic in the surrounding areas. Thick black smoke billowed high into the sky following the blast, alarming residents living nearby.
According to initial reports, the explosion occurred at MRPL’s CST unit. The impact of the blast was reportedly so powerful that glass panes at the nearby Mangaluru International Airport were shattered. However, authorities have not yet officially confirmed the extent of the damage.
The explosion was heard across Jokatte village in Mangaluru taluk, where the refinery is located. Residents said they felt tremors over several kilometres as a massive plume of black smoke and flames rose from the industrial complex. Locals suspect a major explosion may have occurred inside the refinery, with some also expressing concerns that a pipeline could have ruptured.
Following the incident, officials and fire and emergency services rushed to the site and launched firefighting operations. As of now, there has been no official confirmation regarding casualties or injuries, and the exact cause of the explosion remains unknown. Authorities are expected to provide more details after completing their preliminary assessment.
