Transformer explosion and fire cuts power to hundreds in Chromepet, Chennai

A distribution transformer on New Colony's first street in Chromepet, Chennai, exploded with a loud noise around 8am, triggering a fire. Residents said the transformer, one of two installed close together, had been leaking oil for several days and that garbage had accumulated beneath it despite a fence and warnings. Officials suspect the combination of leaked oil and garbage ignited the fire after the unit burst. Residents alerted the fire service and police, and a team from the local fire and rescue station extinguished the blaze after more than 30 minutes. Electricity board officials disconnected power in the area and began removing the damaged transformer for replacement by evening. The outage affected more than 800 houses, shops and offices across 25 streets.

A reported ongoing oil leak from the transformer that had not been addressed, combined with garbage accumulated underneath the unit despite fencing and warnings to residents.

1. Oil leaks from distribution transformers should be treated as an urgent maintenance priority rather than left unresolved for days.
2. Physical barriers around electrical equipment are insufficient on their own; enforcement against waste dumping near transformers is also needed.
3. Routine maintenance should be scheduled proactively during planned outages rather than reactively after a failure occurs.

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