Lightning reported to start fire at Bhadradri power station transformer
June 2024Published 29 Sept 2026
What happened
On 29 June 2024, lightning was reported to have struck the first-unit power transformer at Bhadradri Thermal Power Station in Manugur, Kothagudem district. A fire broke out in the unit. Firefighters attended and were still working to put the fire out when the report was published. The station was described as fitted with lightning arresters, and it was not reported why a fire followed. Injuries, the extent of damage and whether the fire was put out were not reported.
Contributing factors
A lightning strike on the unit transformer was reported. Why a fire followed at a station described as fitted with lightning arresters was not reported.
Lessons learned
- Keep lightning protection on unit transformers inspected and maintained.
- Have a clear procedure for isolating a unit transformer if a fire starts.
- Treat early reports as incomplete until the operator and fire service have confirmed the cause and the outcome.
Source
Published 2026-09-29. Written from public reporting. Descriptive, not investigative. See the data accuracy disclaimer.