A fire erupted at a thermal power station in India, forcing the facility to shut down.

The Tuticorin Power Station in Tamil Nadu caught fire on March 15, leading to the closure of three units.

Local media reported that white smoke first emerged from the cable gallery on the plant's first floor, prompting employees to evacuate immediately as the flames spread. Two units were then shut down as a precautionary measure.

Tamil Nadu Electricity Board (TNEB) officials confirmed that while Units 4 and 5 remain operational, Units 1 to 3 have been shut down, reducing power generation by 630 MW.

Footage shows thick smoke billowing into the air as firemen, assisted by 11 fire trucks from Thoothukudi and neighbouring districts, worked to contain the blaze.

Plant authorities reportedly purged hydrogen gas from the generators and drained the turbine lubricating oil tanks. Continuous monitoring is underway to check for residual fire and smoke.

Officials confirmed that the fire was contained and that no injuries were reported. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the incident.