Sago factory fire in Salem: 10 hospitalised, short circuit suspected
Ten people, including a firefighter, were admitted to a hospital with breathing difficulties after a fire broke out at a sago factory near Attur in Salem district on Sunday evening. The incident occurred around 7 p.m. at a factory owned by K. Ravi (45), a resident of Sathasivapuram near Attur.
According to police, the fire spread to a room where 17 bags of chlorine powder, used for cleaning tanks in the factory, were stored. Factory workers noticed the fire and alerted the Attur Fire and Rescue Services. They also attempted to douse the flames on their own, but thick smoke emanating from the chlorine storage room caused several workers to experience breathing difficulties, with some fainting.
Fire and Rescue Services personnel arrived at the spot, rescued the affected workers, and shifted them to a nearby hospital for treatment. Firefighter N. Vijayakumar (45), a resident of Pethanaickenpalayam, also experienced breathing difficulties during the operation and was admitted to the hospital.
The nine workers admitted to the hospital were identified as M. Marimuthu (58), M. Manikandan (30), M. Viji (27), A. Prabakaran (34), B. Srinivasan (27), T. Rajini alias Dharman (49), C. Velu (32), P. Dharmadurai, and Dhanush (28).
Police sources said all 10 people, including the firefighter, were out of danger and were receiving treatment. The Attur Rural police have registered a case and are investigating the matter further. Preliminary inquiries revealed that a short circuit was the likely cause of the fire.
The incident highlights the risks associated with handling chlorine powder in sago factories. Chlorine powder is commonly used for cleaning storage tanks in the sago industry, but improper storage can create hazardous conditions. When exposed to heat or fire, chlorine-based compounds can release toxic fumes, which may cause respiratory distress and other health complications.
Sago production is a major industry in the Salem region, with numerous factories operating in and around Attur. Fire safety norms and the safe handling of chemicals are critical in such facilities to prevent accidents and protect workers. Authorities have emphasised the need for strict compliance with safety regulations in industrial units.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of fire preparedness and the dangers of chemical exposure. Local officials have assured that a thorough investigation will be conducted to determine the exact cause of the fire and to ensure that adequate safety measures are implemented in all similar factories in the area.
