Jaipur: On Monday, Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan expressed his sorrow over a catastrophic fire at a chemical manufacturing facility in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan, which resulted in the loss of seven lives.

Authorities have indicated that two additional individuals may still be trapped within the site.

In a post on X, VP Radhakrishnan stated, "I am deeply saddened by the tragic fire incident in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan. My heartfelt condolences go out to the families affected, and I pray for the swift recovery of those injured."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his condolences regarding the incident.

The Prime Minister's Office reported him saying, "The fire mishap in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan, is tragic and deeply saddening. I extend my condolences to those who have lost loved ones and pray for the quick recovery of the injured."

Rajasthan's Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma took to social media to express his grief, stating, "The news of lives lost due to a fire in a factory in the Khushkheda Industrial Area of Bhiwadi is incredibly heartbreaking. I have instructed the district administration to initiate relief and rescue operations. I pray for the peace of the departed souls and the swift recovery of the injured."

Reports confirm that around 25 workers were present when the fire broke out at approximately 9:30 a.m. at plot number G-1-118 in the Khuskheda Karauli Industrial Area.

Initial investigations suggest that the fire ignited suddenly within a private industrial unit and quickly spread, engulfing significant portions of the factory in mere minutes.

The RIICO Fire Brigade was alerted by the police control room around 9:22 a.m., leading to an immediate emergency response.

Fire engines from both Khuskheda and Bhiwadi fire stations were dispatched to the scene, where firefighters battled the flames for nearly an hour and a half before gaining control.

According to Additional District Magistrate Sumita Mishra, the fire was first detected during routine police patrols in the area. Rescue operations commenced promptly after the fire was confirmed. Police, fire brigade personnel, medical teams, and administrative officials quickly arrived at the site and secured the area to facilitate relief efforts.

The fire's intensity was severe, with several bodies found in a charred state. Injured workers were promptly transported to nearby hospitals for medical attention.

The exact cause of the fire remains unconfirmed. Tijara Deputy Superintendent of Police Shivraj Singh is leading the preliminary investigation at the site, while senior district officials, including the Superintendent of Police and the ADM, are conducting a thorough review of the situation.

The district administration has announced a magisterial inquiry to investigate the cause of the fire and evaluate any potential safety protocol violations.

This tragic event has left the industrial community in shock and raised significant concerns regarding workplace safety standards.