Mangaluru: A massive fire broke out at Aromazen Pvt Ltd, a factory manufacturing intermediate products for perfumes and deodorants, in the Baikampady industrial area on the outskirts of Mangaluru in the early hours of Wednesday. The fire, which started around 5.30 am, spread rapidly due to the presence of highly flammable raw materials and finished products stored at the facility.
According to Regional Fire Officer, Mangaluru range, C. R. Ranganath, the Fire and Emergency Services control room received an alert from staff of Mangalore Chemicals and Fertilisers (MCF), who first noticed the flames. Immediately, fire tenders from the Kadri fire station rushed to the spot, followed by units from Pandeshwar. Additional support was mobilised from New Mangalore Port, Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL), and MCF.
Firefighting efforts through the morning
Witnesses reported that flames shot high into the sky as the fire engulfed large quantities of stored chemicals. The intensity of the blaze was such that firefighters had to engage in strenuous and prolonged efforts to bring it under control. With multiple teams working together, the operation continued for several hours.
Authorities noted that the presence of solvents and other flammable inputs for perfume production posed additional challenges. Specialised foam and water jets were used to contain the flames and prevent them from spreading to neighbouring industrial units. Fire personnel also ensured that nearby storage tanks and warehouses remained unaffected.
Cause of fire under investigation
While the exact cause of the fire is yet to be established, preliminary reports suggest that a possible short circuit may have triggered the incident. At the time of the fire, factory operations were continuing from the previous night shift, raising the possibility of an electrical fault.
Officials have confirmed that no casualties have been reported so far, though a complete assessment of the damage is still underway. The factory, Aromazen Pvt Ltd, is a well-known supplier of intermediate materials for the perfume and deodorant industry, and its loss is expected to have an impact on supply chains in the sector.
Losses and damage assessment
Initial estimates indicate that a significant quantity of raw materials and finished products worth several crores of rupees may have been destroyed in the fire. The industrial unit had stocked large volumes of highly combustible compounds, which allowed the fire to spread rapidly before responders could reach the scene.
Authorities have stated that a detailed investigation will be carried out to ascertain the exact cause and the extent of losses. Insurance officials are also expected to survey the premises once the cooling operations are completed.
Community response and safety concerns
The incident has once again raised questions about fire safety preparedness in industrial clusters around Baikampady. Locals expressed concern over the potential risks posed by factories storing hazardous and flammable materials in close proximity to residential areas.
Experts have highlighted the need for stringent safety audits, regular electrical inspections, and advanced fire suppression systems in chemical-based industries. Fire officials stressed that the swift alert by MCF staff and the coordinated response of multiple firefighting units helped prevent a more severe disaster.
Conclusion
The blaze at Aromazen Pvt Ltd has been brought under control, but the incident has underlined the vulnerabilities of industries handling volatile materials. While a detailed probe will determine the exact trigger, authorities are expected to recommend stronger safety measures to avoid a recurrence. For now, cooling operations continue at the site, and a full report is awaited.