A massive explosion occurred at an oil refinery in western India’s Gujarat, igniting a large fire that claimed the lives of two people.

The incident happened at the Indian Oil Corporation’s Gujarat Refinery in Vadodara on November 11.

Visuals showed a thick cloud of black smoke filling the sky, with intense flames, while onlookers recorded the scene on their phones.

According to reports, IOCL stated that fire was reported around 3:30 PM in a 1,000 KL Benzene Storage Tank. The refinery’s emergency response team is actively managing the situation, with firefighting operations ongoing. The nearby water sprinkler system has been activated to help contain the fire, and efforts to extinguish it continue. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined.”

IOCL added that the safety of employees and surrounding communities remains a top priority and stated that refinery operations are normal. They will provide further updates as the situation develops.

Meanwhile, Vadodara police reported that a team was stationed at SSG Hospital’s post-mortem department, where the bodies of the two deceased were taken for autopsy. Vadodara District Collector Bijal Shah noted that one injured individual is currently receiving medical treatment at a hospital.