Independent Probe Clears Naphtha Pipeline in Haldia Petrochemicals Fire

An independent investigation found no evidence that Haldia Petrochemicals' naphtha pipeline caused the June fire, shifting attention to another potential ignition source.

(Reuters) — Haldia Petrochemicals' (HPL) naphtha pipeline did not cause last month's fire near its plant in eastern India, according to an independent report and pressure test reviewed by Reuters on July 27.

• An independent committee including specialists in industrial and fire safety concluded the incident was a vapor-cloud fire with a mild explosion, triggered by an unidentified ignition source, the report said.
• HPL's naphtha pipelines at the site of the fire are shut currently because of the fire, said two sources close to the matter.
• The committee found the flammable material was hydrocarbon vapor or gas rather than liquid naphtha, which had initially been suspected as the source of the fire.
• A pressure test report found no leaks in HPL's and nearby pipelines.
• The company had previously said the fire happened at a place where naphtha — a volatile, highly flammable liquid hydrocarbon mixture produced during refining — had been stolen in the past.
• HPL had earlier said that operations at its plant were not affected by the fire.