Surat: A massive fire broke out at a warehouse of Aether Industries Limited in the Sachin Hojiwala Industrial Area of Surat on Wednesday, triggering multiple explosions of chemical drums and causing panic in the surrounding industrial belt. No casualties have been reported so far, officials said.

According to initial reports, the fire started in the company’s godown, where several chemical barrels were stored. More than 30 chemical drums reportedly exploded in quick succession, intensifying the blaze and sending thick plumes of smoke into the sky, visible from several kilometres away. The fire soon spread to a nearby wooden warehouse and later affected a few adjoining industrial units, increasing the scale of the emergency.

Fire authorities declared a major call, following which around 20 fire tenders from different fire stations, including Bhestan and Maan Darwaja, were rushed to the spot. Due to the highly flammable nature of the chemicals stored at the site, firefighters used water, foam, and chemical agents to bring the fire under control.

Officials said the stock and materials stored in the warehouse were largely destroyed in the fire. Preliminary information suggests that a short circuit may have triggered the incident, though the exact cause will be confirmed after a detailed investigation. DeshGujarat