A hydrogen leak at a level transmitter caused a fire and explosion at HPCL’s Residue Upgradation Facility (RUF) in Visakhapatnam. The RUF unit, which employs LC Max technology to convert heavy oils into Euro-VI diesel and other high-value products, was under construction when the incident occurred.

Around 2,500 workers were evacuated, and response teams contained the fire within 30 minutes. Fortunately, there were no injuries. Officials confirmed that misinformation is spreading, stressing the incident was minor and under control. The facility, once operational, is expected to process 3.55 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA) of residue feed.

While production is not yet impacted, the event shines light on safety protocols during refinery expansion — especially when new technologies and units with hazardous gases (hydrogen) are involved. It emphasises rigorous commissioning checks, leak detection, and emergency preparedness.—