Dibrugarh: One worker died and at least five others were critically injured after a massive fire and explosion broke out at Oil India Limited’s (OIL) Intermediate Tank Farm (ITF) at Tengakhat in Assam’s Dibrugarh district on Friday.
The deceased has been identified as Raju Dutta, who reportedly died on the spot. The five injured workers have been identified as Tapas Gogoi (40) of Milan Nagar, Dibrugarh, and Shailen Gogoi (45), Kumud Gogoi (38), Golap Dutta (58) and Indra Gogoi (40), all residents of Tengakhat.
Preliminary reports said the explosion occurred while workers were operating a valve at the facility. The blast reportedly took place in the crude oil storage section of the tank farm, triggering a major fire.
All five were admitted to Assam Medical College and Hospital (AMCH) in Dibrugarh, where they are reportedly undergoing treatment in critical condition.
Another worker is reportedly missing after being thrown away by the force of the explosion. His whereabouts are yet to be ascertained.
The injured workers were reportedly employed by Spectron Engineers Private Limited, Mumbai, which was engaged by Oil India Limited.
Several other people are also believed to have sustained injuries. However, the exact number of casualties and the circumstances leading to the explosion are yet to be officially confirmed.
Further details are awaited.