A massive fire that broke out at the Tamil Nadu Thermal Power Station (TTPS) in Thoothukudi on Saturday night, March 15, was extinguished after 12 hours of intensive firefighting operations. The incident has led to the shutdown of three out of the five operational units, impacting power generation by 630 MW (mega watt). The TTPS has a total power generation capacity of 1,050 MW.
According to officials, the fire started around 10 pm in the cable gallery of Unit 1 due to a switchgear failure. The malfunction disrupted the internal power supply, affecting operations in Unit 3. At the time of the incident, Unit 2 was reportedly on standby. Despite immediate response measures, the fire spread to other areas, including the cable gallery of Unit 2, necessitating an extensive firefighting effort.
A total of 10 fire engines and 50 firefighters, equipped with advanced fire-tending vehicles and safety gear from Madurai, were deployed to control the blaze. Their swift action prevented the fire from reaching Units 3, 4, and 5, averting further damage to the power station. Authorities confirmed that the fire was finally doused by Sunday, March 16.
Though the extent of the damage is yet to be fully assessed, TTPS Chief Engineer Sridhar affirmed that Unit 3 might be operational within a few days. Restoration efforts are currently underway to bring the affected units back online.
Meanwhile, two firefighters suffered from suffocation during the operation and were admitted to the Thoothukudi Government Medical College and Hospital for treatment. Their condition is reported to be stable.