Mangaluru: A tragic incident unfolded at the Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL) facility on Saturday morning, resulting in the deaths of two experienced field operators and hospitalisation of a third. The incident took place at approximately 8:00 am in the Oil Movement Area (OMS) of the refinery.
Workers found unconscious atop dry slop tank
According to MRPL, the two employees—Deep Chandra Bhartiya and Bijil Prasad—had climbed onto the rooftop platform of tank FB7029 A, a dry slop service tank with a floating roof, to inspect a suspected level malfunction. Shortly thereafter, both were found unconscious on the platform.
They were immediately rushed to the onsite first aid centre and then transferred to a nearby hospital in Mangaluru. Despite all efforts to resuscitate them, both were declared dead by hospital authorities.
Rescuer hospitalised, said to be stable
In a brave rescue attempt, a third operator, Vinayak Myageri, ascended the platform to assist his unconscious colleagues. He too was affected during the incident and is currently undergoing treatment at a city hospital. His condition has been reported as stable, and he remains under observation.
Investigation initiated, authorities informed
In the wake of the tragedy, MRPL issued a statement expressing profound grief and extending condolences to the families of the deceased. The company has constituted a high-level internal investigation committee comprising Group General Managers to ascertain the exact cause of the incident.
“All relevant statutory authorities have been informed, and we are committed to providing all necessary information and support to the investigation,” the statement read.
The exact cause behind the incident remains unclear, although industrial safety experts speculate the possibility of gas inhalation or oxygen deprivation atop the tank. MRPL has not yet confirmed any technical reasons pending the detailed inquiry.
A grim reminder of industrial hazards
This incident has sent shockwaves across the oil and gas sector, where safety remains a critical concern. As the investigation unfolds, workers’ unions and safety watchdogs are expected to monitor the case closely.
MRPL, a key subsidiary of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), is one of the largest oil refineries in southern India. The facility at Katipalla, near Mangaluru, employs hundreds of skilled personnel and follows stringent safety protocols, according to company statements.