An explosion occurred at HPCL’s oil refinery in Visakhapatnam. Tall flames were seen rising following the blast. Thick smoke engulfed the surrounding area. Further details about the incident are yet to emerge. The refinery had witnessed a similar incident in 2013, when an explosion at a cooling tower killed two people and injured 37 others. Refinery began operations in 1957 The major oil refinery in Visakhapatnam, known as HPCL’s Visakh Refinery, began operations in 1957. It is one of the oldest and largest refineries on India’s eastern coast. It processes crude oil to produce petrol, diesel and gas. Recent refinery-related incidents in India 30 September 2026: MRPL, Mangaluru – One person killed and eight injured. 20 April 2026: HPCL Rajasthan Refinery – Fire broke out. 23 August 2025: BPCL, Kochi – Explosion in a valve followed by a fire. Post navigation Ajit Pawar faction NCP rules out merger speculation:Reports of differences in party emerge after Amit Shah meets Sunetra Pawar Centre Empanels 53 Officers for Joint Secretary Posts, Largest Share from IRS & Railways
