Ernakulam: District Collector NSK Umesh convened a review meeting at the Collectorate on Wednesday following a fire that broke out at the BPCL Kochi Refinery in Ambalamugal, Kochi, on Tuesday evening. The meeting was attended by MP Benny Behanan, MLA P.V. Sreenijin, presidents of Thiruvaniyoor and Puthencruz grama panchayats, officials, Janakeeya Samithi members, and residents.

During the meeting, the Collector instructed Deputy Collector K. Manoj, who also heads the Disaster Management Department, to lead a committee to investigate the cause of the fire and review the company’s Disaster Management Plan (DMP). The team includes the company’s security officer, electrical inspector, and KSEB officials. Any necessary revisions to the DMP must be submitted within a week.

Additionally, a separate inspection committee has been formed to assess the habitability of areas surrounding the refinery. This team comprises officials from the Pollution Control Board, the local health inspector, the village officer, and company representatives. They are expected to conduct house-to-house visits and submit a report within two days.

The fire, which began on Tuesday evening, was reportedly triggered by a high-tension power line belonging to the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB). The incident caused thick smoke to spread across the surrounding area, raising health concerns among residents.

Several people from the nearby Ayyankuzhi locality complained of uneasiness and breathing difficulties due to the smoke, prompting authorities to begin evacuations. Locals also reported hearing an explosion before the fire started. Fire and rescue teams, along with ambulances, arrived promptly at the site.

The resulting smoke cloud caused distress among locals, with around 30 people seeking medical attention. Two individuals remain under treatment at Kolenchery Hospital.