Massive Fire Erupts at CMR Aluminium Factory in Yerpedu, 8 Workers Hospitalised

A massive fire broke out on Friday evening at the CMR (ECO) Aluminium Industry near the Chintalapalem toll gate in Yerpedu mandal, sparking panic among residents as thick plumes of smoke rose high into the sky. This is the third major industrial fire reported in the area in recent months, raising serious questions about safety compliance and industrial monitoring in the region.

🔥 Fire Breaks Out Inside Factory Pipeline

According to preliminary reports, the blaze originated in the upper section of a waste oil pipeline inside the plant. The fire spread rapidly through the factory’s internal system, producing dense smoke that engulfed the premises and made visibility difficult for workers.

Eight factory workers suffered breathing difficulties due to smoke inhalation and were immediately rescued by emergency response teams.

• Six of the affected workers were shifted to Srikalahasti Area Hospital.
• Two others, in more serious condition, were admitted to Balaji Hospital in Renigunta for advanced care.

🚒 Firefighters Battle Flames for Hours

Fire engines from Venkatagiri, Srikalahasti, and Tirupati were deployed under the supervision of District Fire Officer Ramanayya. The firefighting teams battled the flames for several hours before bringing the situation under control.

Officials said the fire was contained before it could spread to adjoining industrial sections. However, property damage is being assessed, and the exact cause of the fire is under investigation.

“Preliminary evidence suggests that the fire may have started due to overheating in a pipeline carrying waste oil,” an official at the scene said.

🏛️ Top Officials Visit Site

Senior authorities rushed to the spot to assess the situation. Among those who visited were:

• Srikalahasti RDO Bhanu Prakash Reddy
• District Medical & Health Officer (DMHO) V. Balakrishna Naik
• Renigunta DSP Srinivas Rao
• Yerpedu Tahsildar Bhargavi
• Circle Inspector Srikanth Reddy

A formal police inquiry has been launched to determine lapses in fire safety and whether the factory followed standard operating procedures (SOPs) for hazardous material handling.

⚠️ Third Major Fire in the Region

This incident marks the third industrial fire in the Yerpedu–Srikalahasti industrial corridor this year. The frequency of such incidents has triggered calls for stringent inspections and enforcement of workplace safety protocols.

Local residents have urged authorities to ensure that all industrial units in the region install automated fire suppression systems and conduct regular emergency response drills.

📊 Summary at a Glance