Indian refinery inauguration postponed after fire in vicinity

A fire broke out at a refinery in the western Indian state of Rajasthan, prompting authorities to delay its inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday, according to an official statement.

Indian Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry said a fire incident took place in the vicinity of the crude distillation unit at the refinery located in the Balotra district, according to a statement on US social media company X.

The scheduled dedication of the refinery by Modi on Tuesday has been postponed, the ministry said, adding the fire has been brought under control and there are no reports of any casualties.

“An investigation has been initiated to ascertain the cause(s) of the incident and to undertake necessary remedial measures,” it said.