site.btaVeliko Tarnovo Fire Service: Fire at Svilosa Plant Results in Significant Sodium Chlorate Loss

A fire and a blast at the Svilosa chemical plant in Svishtov resulted in the destruction of 14,000 kilograms of sodium chlorate, one pulp bleaching equipment unit, and an electrical installation, among others, the Veliko Tarnovo Fire Safety and Population Protection Directorate (FSPPD) said on Tuesday.

FSPPD also said that a warehouse, an open chlorine dioxide facility, and another open methane delivery facility were salvaged. Three men, aged 40, 42, and 54, sustained injuries. Authorities are currently investigating the causes of the fire.

Earlier on Tuesday, Veliko Tarnovo Regional Environment and Water Inspectorate (REWI) Director Maya Radeva said no air pollution had been detected in Svishtov following the fire. In her words, the situation was promptly contained Monday by immediately halting production, which prevented the release of excessive gas mixtures that could potentially endanger public health. Data from the mobile station placed adjacent to the Town Hall verified the lack of air pollution.