Fire breaks out at MRPL waste treatment plant in Surathkal
Surathkal: A fire accident was reported at the waste treatment plant of Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL) on Tuesday morning, officials said.
The incident occurred around 11 am during welding work near the petroleum waste treatment facility at the Phase-3 unit between Jokatte and Bajpe. During the welding operation, a spark reportedly struck a pipe connected to the waste treatment plant, triggering an explosion.
Police said the spark hit a treatment tank with a capacity of about 10,000 litres, causing it to explode. Employees working a few feet away from the site escaped unhurt after hearing the loud explosion.
Following the incident, all entry and exit gates of MRPL in Bajpe, Jokatte and Surathkal areas were closed, and restrictions were imposed on the movement of vehicles and people.
Fire tenders from MRPL visited the spot and carried out firefighting operations for about two hours to bring the situation under control.
While hot work is usually carried out only after ensuring that no petroleum waste is released into processing units, residents of Jokatte alleged that wastewater discharge led to the incident and expressed outrage, accusing MRPL of negligence and irresponsibility.
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Karnataka gram panchayats achieve 89% of tax collection target
Bengaluru: Gram panchayats across Karnataka have recorded a strong improvement in revenue mobilisation, realising 89% of the tax collection target for the financial year 2025-26, one of the highest levels in recent years, The Hindu reported.
According to the Department of Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, 5,943 gram panchayats reported higher collections compared to the previous year. The total tax collection stood at Rs 1,382.57 crore, marking an increase of Rs 110.04 crore from Rs 1,272.54 crore collected in 2024-25.
Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Priyank Kharge said state had previously secured the top position at the national level in tax collection and revenue mobilisation with respect to village panchayats, and the continued upward trend highlights the impact of “efficient administration, strict enforcement of regulations, and strengthened tax collection mechanisms.”
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In 2024-25, gram panchayats had realised 80% of the demand, collecting Rs 1,272.54 crore for the first time in the department’s history. Building on this, the state has now reached a record 89% realisation.
Highlighting district-wise performance, the minister noted that Raichur recorded 129% tax collection, while 11 districts crossed 100% realisation.
He said the improvement was driven by awareness campaigns, focused collection drives, and sustained efforts of officials at all levels, from bill collectors to senior administrators.
“Our focus over the past few years has been on improving systems, ensuring accountability, and empowering local bodies to enhance their own revenue capabilities. It is encouraging to see that every rupee collected is being reinvested into village infrastructure, public services, and local development. This is laying a strong foundation for inclusive and sustainable rural growth,” he said.
