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A massive fire broke out at an oil warehouse in the Nandakumar area of East Midnapore on Monday, triggering panic among residents as thick black smoke engulfed the surroundings. Police and paramilitary forces were deployed to manage the situation, while multiple fire engines rushed to the spot to contain the blaze.
The incident occurred in the Bakhrabad area under Nandakumar police station, where a large quantity of crude or unrefined oil was reportedly stored in the warehouse. Due to the highly inflammable material, the fire spread rapidly, sending dense smoke into the sky and alarming people in nearby localities. Authorities quickly cordoned off the area and halted vehicular movement to prevent further risk.
Firefighters carried out prolonged operations to bring the flames under control, eventually dousing the fire after sustained efforts. Although no immediate casualties were reported, the warehouse was completely gutted. Officials have now launched an investigation into the cause of the fire, while questions are being raised about whether the warehouse had proper authorization and fire safety clearance.