Chemical plant in Veliky Novgorod caught in conflagration

A conflagration occurred on a chemical plant in Veliky Novgorod (Russia's north-west) in the small hours of Saturday.

According to sources in the regional branch of the Ministry of Emergencies, the fire started in one of the ammonia-producing shops and subsequently spread over 20-meter-high reinforced concrete building. Eight fire-engines were involved in extinguishing the fire. Two hours later, it was over.

There are no reports of human casualties.

According to preliminary investigation, the conflagration was caused by the leak in the pipeline carrying technical oil, which was installed on a gas-synthesizing plant.

The material damage is being assessed at the moment.