Fire at Tata Electronics factory triggers forensic investigation

Indian authorities are launching a forensic investigation into the cause of a fire that broke out at a Tata Electronics factory in Tamil Nadu on Saturday. The facility produces components for Apple iPhones, a state official confirmed Sunday.

Two people with direct knowledge of the situation said the factory, which is on a regular Sunday holiday, was unlikely to receive government approval to resume production until Monday. Both Tata Electronics and Apple did not respond to requests for comment outside regular business hours. The company previously said it was investigating the incident to ensure the safety of employees and stakeholders.

This is the latest incident of several affecting Apple suppliers in India, where the US company is expanding its supply chain outside of China. According to the fire department, the fire started in a chemical warehouse and was completely extinguished. District administrative officer KM Sarayu reported that the fumes had dissipated and two hospitalized workers are expected to be discharged soon. Forensic teams from Chennai are on their way to investigate the matter. However, it remains unclear whether the fire affected nearby buildings. The assembly of iPhones is expected to begin in one of these buildings this year.

(With contributions from agencies.)