Udupi: A fire broke out at an old milk processing unit of the Karnataka Milk Federation in Eshwar Nagar, Manipal, on Tuesday morning, causing significant damage to the facility. Fire and emergency services personnel responded swiftly and managed to bring the situation under control within an hour.
According to preliminary information, the incident occurred around 11 am while welding work was being carried out at the unit. Sparks generated during the process are believed to have ignited nearby oil, leading to the outbreak of the fire.
Fire spreads to boiler section
Officials said the flames quickly spread within the premises and reached the boiler section of the unit, intensifying the blaze. The presence of flammable materials in the vicinity further contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.
Thick smoke was seen billowing from the Premises, prompting immediate concern among workers and nearby residents. Emergency protocols were activated, and the fire department was alerted without delay.
Swift response by fire personnel
Firefighters from Udupi rushed to the spot and launched an operation to contain the blaze. Using specialised equipment, they worked for nearly an hour to control and extinguish the fire, preventing it from spreading to adjacent structures.
Authorities confirmed that the timely intervention of fire and emergency services helped avert a major disaster. No casualties have been reported in the incident.
Damage assessment underway
While the fire has been successfully doused, officials indicated that the incident caused considerable damage to parts of the unit, particularly in the affected sections where the fire spread.
A detailed assessment of the damage is currently underway. Authorities are also expected to examine safety protocols and compliance measures at the facility to determine whether any lapses contributed to the incident.
Safety concerns and precautions
The incident has once again highlighted the risks associated with industrial activities such as welding, especially in environments where flammable substances are present. Experts emphasise the importance of adhering to strict safety guidelines and ensuring proper supervision during such operations.
Preventive measures, including adequate ventilation, safe storage of combustible materials, and readiness of firefighting equipment, are critical in minimising risks in industrial settings.
Conclusion
The fire at the KMF unit in Manipal serves as a reminder of the importance of industrial safety and preparedness. While prompt action by fire personnel prevented escalation, authorities are expected to review safety measures to avoid similar incidents in the future.