A substantial fire ignited at the coal dumping yard managed by NLC India Ltd in Jharsuguda district of Odisha on Friday, causing alarm among nearby residents and businesses.
Initial reports indicate that the fire started at the coal dumping yard associated with the Talabira 2 & 3 Open Cast Project (OCP). Thick plumes of white smoke were observed rising from various locations within the yard, with flames visible at multiple points.
To combat the fire, firefighters with advanced equipment were dispatched to the scene. Heavy machinery was also utilized to promptly remove and relocate coal from the impacted areas as part of the firefighting strategy.
While the precise cause of the fire is still under investigation, the incident has raised concerns regarding the safety of the substantial coal reserves stored at the location and the potential financial losses incurred due to the blaze.
It is estimated that coal worth crores of rupees may have been damaged, although the total extent of the loss has yet to be determined.
The considerable smoke billowing from the coal yard has alarmed local residents regarding its potential effects on the environment and public health. Community members are calling for an independent investigation into the fire’s cause, the amount of coal impacted, the response to the emergency, and any subsequent environmental repercussions.
NLC India senior officials were not immediately available to provide detailed information regarding the incident.
