3 killed in Boisar MIDC chemical reactor fire could have been saved

Prompt response by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) and Tarapur Atomic Power Station (TAPS) fire and foam tenders to a distress call from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) could have saved three lives lost in a fire that broke out in a chemical reactor in Boisar MIDC on Friday, according to a preliminary report filed by the Palghar district collectorate. Twenty persons suffered injuries in the fire that spread to six industrial units.

The report specifically mentions that BARC and TAPS denied help to the NDRF.

The Disaster Management Cell had made calls to both the central and state agencies to douse the fire and conduct search and rescue operations, the report said.

Dr Prashant Narnaware, Palghar Collector, said, "Their conduct has been against the disaster management norms. We have mentioned in the report that BARC and TAPS have flouted norms by not sending their fire and foam tenders despite directives from the Disaster Management Cell. We will be taking appropriate action against those responsible for the inaction."

"The central agencies should have cooperated during emergency situations. The fire had posed a threat to TAPS and BARC installations, too. We will be escalating the issue with senior government officials," said Narnaware.

When contacted, BARC and TAPS officials refused to comment on the issue.

(With inputs from Sanjay Jog)