Goa, Nov. 3 -- A massive fire broke out at the Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) refinery in Visakhapatnam following reports of sudden explosion-like sounds at the facility, triggering concern among nearby residents.

The blaze reportedly erupted at a sulphur pitch tank, sending towering flames and thick clouds of smoke into the sky. The smoke was visible across neighbouring localities, raising concerns among residents in the vicinity.

Visakhapatnam Police Commissioner Shankhabrata Bagchi confirmed the incident and said the fire was confined to the affected tank, adding that there was no threat to other sections of the refinery.

In a statement, HPCL said fire brigade personnel were immediately deployed to the spot and manag...