Overview

• A fire broke out at Blast Furnace 1 of the Acciaierie d’Italia steel plant in Taranto, producing a large column of black smoke visible from kilometers away.
• The fire was contained without injuries, and the area was evacuated by the fire brigade as a precautionary measure.
• Union sources suggest the fire may have been caused by a tubiera explosion, though the official investigation into the incident is ongoing.
• Metalworkers’ unions Fim, Fiom, and Uilm have requested an urgent meeting with the plant operator to receive a detailed technical report and ensure future safety measures.
• The incident occurred during a visit by Environment Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin, who reiterated the government’s goal to transform the plant into Europe’s most decarbonized steel facility.