India Launches Investigation into Fire at Tata Plant Supplying Apple iPhones

Indian authorities to conduct forensic investigation into Tata Electronics factory fire. Apple supplier faces production halt following the fire incident. Two workers hospitalised due to the fire expected to be discharged soon.

Credit: REUTERS

The factory, which was closed for the weekly holiday on Sunday, is unlikely to resume production by Monday, according to sources familiar with the situation. Both Tata Electronics and Apple have not provided comments outside of regular business hours, with Tata Electronics stating they are looking into the cause of the fire and ensuring the safety of their employees and stakeholders.

This incident adds to a series of challenges faced by Apple suppliers in India, a country where the tech giant is expanding its supply chain beyond China, viewing it as a promising market for growth. The fire at the Hosur plant originated in an area used for chemical storage, as reported by a fire official to Reuters.

District administrative official K.M. Sarayu confirmed that the fire has been completely extinguished, and the release of fumes has ceased. Two workers who were hospitalised are scheduled to be released on Sunday, allowing for further investigation. Sarayu stated that a forensic team from the state capital Chennai has been dispatched for the investigation.

The fire's impact on surrounding buildings, including one scheduled to begin iPhone assembly by the end of the year, is unknown. The authorities are now focussing on determining the cause of the fire and ensuring the safety of the workers and facility.

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• Indian authorities to conduct forensic investigation into Tata Electronics factory fire

• Apple supplier faces production halt following the fire incident

• Two workers hospitalised due to the fire expected to be discharged soon

Source: REUTERS