Loud explosion and thick smoke reported at MRPL refinery in Mangaluru

On Wednesday afternoon, a powerful blast occurred at the Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL) facility in Mangaluru, Karnataka, causing widespread alarm as the shockwave resonated for kilometers and thick black smoke rose from the site. Local residents reported windows shattering in their homes and the Panchayat building due to the intense sound, while the airport office suffered damage to its windows.

Authorities, including MRPL officials, the Police Commissioner, and district administration representatives, were contacted by local MP Captain Brijesh Chowta, who suspended all scheduled events in Belthangady and directed hospitals to prepare for emergencies. However, the precise cause of the blast and any casualties or damage remained unknown at the time.