In a tragic inferno that has shocked Rajasthan, at least seven workers were burnt alive when a massive fire erupted at a chemical factory in Bhiwadi's Khushkhera-Karoli industrial area on Monday, February 16 morning. More than 20 workers were present at the facility at the time of the blaze, with some managing to escape the flames while two others remain feared trapped inside the structure.
The fire's outbreak prompted a swift response from local authorities after police learned of the incident during a routine patrol. Additional District Magistrate Sumita Mishra confirmed that rescue operations were launched immediately, with firefighters and emergency teams battling the intense blaze to reach those trapped within.
"Nine people were trapped inside. Seven bodies have been taken out so far," Mishra stated, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. She added that frenetic efforts were underway to rescue the remaining two workers, as teams worked tirelessly amid the hazardous conditions of the chemical factory.
The devastating incident has drawn sharp political reaction, with Rajasthan Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra calling on the state government and administration to take immediate and decisive action. Dotasra highlighted the human cost of the fire, urging comprehensive measures to prevent such tragedies.
Dotasra further alleged that fire incidents have become frequent under the current government, pointing to recent disasters as evidence. He referenced a chemical tanker accident on Ajmer Road that claimed more than 16 lives, as well as a tragic blaze in Jaipur’s SMS hospital ICU where patients were reportedly burnt to death.
As rescue operations continue in Bhiwadi, the incident underscores ongoing safety concerns in Rajasthan's industrial zones, with authorities racing against time to account for all workers and investigate the fire's cause.
