Bhiwadi, Rajasthan – A devastating fire ripped through a chemical factory in Rajasthan’s Bhiwadi industrial area on Monday, February 16, 2026, claiming the lives of at least seven workers and leaving two others trapped, according to multiple reports. The blaze, which erupted in the Khushkhera–Karoli industrial zone, prompted a large-scale rescue operation involving fire tenders from Khushkhera and Bhiwadi RIICO.
The incident underscores the ongoing risks within India’s industrial sector, particularly concerning safety standards in chemical manufacturing. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire, with initial reports suggesting around 25 workers were present inside the factory when the flames broke out. The rapid spread of the fire caused widespread panic among those present.
According to officials, emergency teams were swiftly dispatched to the scene after police on patrol were alerted to the incident. Additional District Magistrate Sumita Mishra confirmed that nine people were initially believed to be trapped inside the factory. As of the latest updates, seven bodies have been recovered, and efforts are continuing to locate the remaining two workers. NDTV reports that as many as 10 workers were initially feared trapped.
Fire Breaks Out at Chemical Unit in Khushkhera
The fire originated at a chemical factory located in the Khushkhera industrial area of Bhiwadi, a region known for its concentration of manufacturing units. The exact nature of the chemicals being processed at the facility has not yet been released, but the presence of hazardous materials significantly complicated rescue efforts. CNBC TV18 initially reported seven deaths, a figure that has been confirmed by multiple sources.
Rescue teams faced challenging conditions as they worked to extinguish the blaze and search for survivors. The intensity of the fire and the potential for explosions due to the presence of chemicals hampered their progress. Firefighters from both Khushkhera and Bhiwadi RIICO stations were deployed to the scene, working to contain the flames and prevent further spread.
Government Response and Condolences
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his condolences over the loss of lives in the tragic incident. As reported by PM India, the Prime Minister’s office extended heartfelt sympathy to the families of the deceased. Details regarding any financial assistance or government support for the victims and their families have not yet been announced.
Local authorities are coordinating with the factory management to determine the cause of the fire and assess the extent of the damage. A thorough investigation is expected to be launched to identify any safety lapses or violations that may have contributed to the incident.
Ongoing Rescue Efforts and Concerns
The focus remains on locating the two workers who are still believed to be trapped inside the factory premises. Rescue teams are continuing to search through the debris, but the unstable structure of the building poses significant risks. The CNBC TV18 report highlights the challenges faced by rescuers due to the ongoing fire and the potential for further collapses.
There are growing concerns about the safety regulations and oversight within the Khushkhera industrial area. This incident is likely to prompt a review of existing safety protocols and a call for stricter enforcement of regulations to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future. The incident raises questions about industrial safety standards in Rajasthan and the need for improved emergency response capabilities.
#WATCH | Rajasthan: Seven people burned to death in a fire that broke out in a chemical factory in Bhiwadi of Khairthal-Tijara district. Their bodies have been recovered. Firefighting operations are underway. More details awaited. (Video Source: Fire Department)
— ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2026
Authorities have not yet released a timeline for when the rescue operation is expected to conclude or when a full investigation report will be available. Updates will be provided as they become available. The immediate priority remains the safe recovery of the remaining workers and providing support to the families of those who have lost their lives. The Rajasthan government has yet to announce any specific plans for a formal inquiry into the incident, but it is widely anticipated that one will be launched in the coming days.
This is a developing story. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. If you have information related to this incident, please share it with us.
If you are experiencing emotional distress related to this event, please reach out for support. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) helpline can be reached at 1070. Additional resources are available through the Ministry of Home Affairs website: https://mha.gov.in/
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