Indian authorities are initiating a forensic investigation into a fire that erupted on Saturday at a Tata Electronics factory in Tamil Nadu, which produces components for Apple iPhones. A state official confirmed the probe on Sunday, noting that the factory was closed for its weekly holiday.
According to sources familiar with the situation, the plant is unlikely to receive state approval to resume operations by Monday. Neither Tata Electronics nor Apple responded to inquiries outside of regular business hours. However, Tata Electronics previously stated it was looking into the fire’s cause and would implement measures to protect employees and stakeholders.
This incident adds to a series of challenges faced by Apple suppliers in India, as the tech giant seeks to diversify its supply chain away from China and capitalize on growth opportunities in the Indian market.
The fire originated in a chemical storage area within the plant located in Hosur, as reported by a fire official. District administrative officer K.M. Sarayu stated that the blaze has been “completely put out,” and emissions have ceased. She added that two workers who were hospitalized due to the incident are expected to be discharged on Sunday.
Sarayu confirmed that investigators have been cleared to enter the facility, and a forensic team has been dispatched from Chennai to determine the fire’s cause.
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