Inferno Halts Inauguration of HPCL Rajasthan Refinery

Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) has attributed a recent fire at its Rajasthan refinery to a hydrocarbon leak, pushing the facility's inauguration into uncertainty. Initial findings point to a valve or flange leak in a heat exchanger circuit as the possible cause.

The incident forced a delay in the grand opening, initially set for April 21. HPCL anticipates restoration work to complete within three to four weeks, with operations expected to resume fully by late May. The Ministry of Petroleum has launched a separate inquiry led by M Venkatesh, involving a four-member team to further investigate the incident.

The Rajasthan refinery, a significant petrochemical facility, will rank as India's second most complex unit. Once operational, it promises a high petrochemical output, aligning with global standards for efficiency and sustainability. With this project, India aims to curb import dependence and enhance value-added production across various sectors.

(With inputs from agencies.)