Mangaluru, Sept. 30 -- A massive fire broke out following a blast at the Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL) facility in Mangaluru on Wednesday, triggering panic in the area.

Thick smoke was seen billowing from the plant premises.

According to Police Commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy, eight people sustained injuries after a major blast occurred in the hydro sulphur treatment unit, which was followed by a fire.

"Eight people were injured after there was a major blast followed by a fire in the hydro sulphur treatment unit. One injured person, identified as Rajesh, was shifted from the plant premises to Srinivasa Hospital for treatment. He is out of danger; CP, DC and CEO are present here.." Police Commissioner Reddy stated. ...