Visakhapatnam, November 2 (Punjab Infoline): A major fire broke out at Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited's (HPCL) Visakh Refinery in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, on Monday evening, November 2, 2026. Huge flames and thick clouds of black smoke were seen rising from the refinery, causing concern among residents of nearby areas.

According to media reports, the fire erupted near a tank containing Ruf Pitch Oil, an intermediate product used in the manufacture of bitumen. Some reports also described the affected facility as a sulphur pitch tank.

Explosion Reports Under Scrutiny

Following the incident, some witnesses reported hearing explosion-like sounds, while similar claims circulated on social media. However, HPCL sources and officials indicated that a full-scale tank explosion was unlikely.

Officials said the fire appeared to be confined to the affected tank area, with no immediate indication of a wider threat to the refinery.

No Injuries or Casualties Reported

No injuries or casualties have been reported so far in connection with the incident.

Firefighting teams from HPCL and local emergency services rushed to the site and began operations to bring the flames under control.

Police confirmed that the fire was restricted to the tank area and that there was no broader threat to the refinery at this stage.

Videos of Flames and Smoke Circulate Online

Videos showing towering flames and thick smoke rising above the refinery circulated widely on social media following the incident.

The smoke plume was visible from nearby areas, including Malkapuram and Sriharipuram, raising concern among local residents.

HPCL Visakh Refinery Has 15 MMTPA Capacity

The HPCL Visakh Refinery is one of India's major petroleum refining facilities. According to HPCL's official information, the refinery has a nameplate processing capacity of 15 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA).

The facility has also recorded annual crude oil processing volumes of approximately 15 to 16 million metric tonnes in recent years.

Cause of Fire Yet to Be Established

The exact cause of the fire has not yet been established. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, including reports of explosion-like sounds.

Further details regarding the extent of damage and the outcome of the firefighting operations are awaited.

This is a developing story. Further updates are expected as officials release more information.