A major fire broke out at Pawane MIDC in Navi Mumbai on Saturday, January 24, around 12.30 pm, engulfing four industrial units and triggering panic across the industrial belt. The blaze spread rapidly to Beta Chemical, Raigad Chemical, and two units of National Rubber, officials said.

Thick plumes of black smoke were seen rising from the industrial premises as the fire intensified, raising concerns due to the presence of chemical and rubber materials in the affected units. Workers in nearby factories rushed out as a precautionary measure, while police and civic authorities moved quickly to secure the area.