Sanand: A massive fire broke out at the Esdee Paints Ltd factory near Moraiya village on the Ahmedabad–Bavla highway around noon on Tuesday, triggering a “Major Call” by fire authorities as thick black smoke from the blaze was visible up to 10 kilometres away. The fire rapidly intensified due to the presence of highly flammable chemicals and solvents stored inside the factory premises.

Authorities said no casualties had been reported as the factory remained closed on the day of the incident. However, goods worth lakhs of rupees were reportedly destroyed in the blaze. The intensity of the fire also led to the collapse of the factory’s iron shed structure.

According to fire officials, barrels containing combustible substances such as solvents and thinners continued to explode, making firefighting operations increasingly difficult and preventing personnel from safely entering certain sections of the premises.

Following the incident, more than 18 fire tenders from Ahmedabad and Sanand were rushed to the spot. Firefighters deployed water and foam to contain the flames, while additional vehicles were called in as efforts intensified. Officials were also considering deploying specialised robotic assistance due to the hazardous conditions and repeated explosions inside the factory.

Fire Officer Manubhai Solanki said the fire became extremely severe because of the large quantity of solvent and thinner stored at the facility. He added that additional fire vehicles had been requisitioned from Ahmedabad and that preventing the blaze from spreading to nearby paint and chemical factories remained the top priority.

“We have covered nearly half the area so far, but our main concern is to protect surrounding paint factories. If the fire spreads there, it could lead to a major disaster,” Solanki said.

Local reports stated that intermittent explosions continued for hours after the fire erupted, while the collapsed structure further complicated firefighting efforts. Officials said it remained difficult to estimate when the fire would be fully brought under control.

The incident also led to severe traffic congestion on the Changodar–Bavla highway. Meanwhile, reports suggested that media personnel covering the incident allegedly faced obstruction and verbal abuse from company staff. Even six hours after the blaze began, firefighting operations were continuing on a war footing. DeshGujarat