Blast Reported at MRPL Refinery as Smoke Prompts Response

An incident at the Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL) complex in Mangaluru prompted an emergency response after a loud blast was reported and thick smoke was seen rising from the premises on Wednesday. The cause, extent of damage and whether anyone was injured or killed had not been established in the available information. MRPL officials confirmed that an incident occurred within the refinery, but had not provided details about what happened or possible casualties. Fire and emergency teams were sent to the site, and smoke was reported rising from the refinery. The accounts describe a response involving fire tenders from New Mangalore Port Authority and city fire services. One report also said ambulances were seen at the premises. Residents in nearby areas, including Jokatte and Surathkal, reported hearing a loud blast and feeling buildings shake. Some accounts described windows breaking or doors and windows vibrating. The sound was also reported at Mangaluru airport, where windows in an administrative office rattled, according to an airport official cited in one account. Reports of damage to nearby buildings were not accompanied by a verified assessment.