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A fire that erupted at a Tata Electronics plant in southern India, a crucial facility for manufacturing components for Apple iPhones, has led to an indefinite suspension of production. The incident, which occurred on Saturday, has raised concerns about the impact on Apple's supply chain in India, a market the tech giant has been actively looking to diversify into, moving away from its reliance on China.
The fire, which resulted in 10 individuals sustaining minor injuries, has caused extensive damage to the plant, making it difficult for officials to conduct thorough inspections. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with fire engines stationed at the plant to prevent further incidents and manage any potential smoke emanating from the damaged sheds.
The plant, situated in Tamil Nadu state, plays a significant role in Apple's production process, producing critical components such as back panels and other essential parts for iPhones. Notably, another building within the same complex was set to begin iPhone assembly before the end of the year. However, the extent of the fire's impact on this planned operation remains unclear.
The incident marks the latest disruption to Apple's iPhone supply chain in India. The company has been actively trying to establish a stronger foothold in the Indian market, viewing it as a key area for growth. While Apple has yet to issue a statement on the fire, Tata has assured the public that emergency protocols were implemented to ensure the safety of employees, with the cause of the fire currently under investigation.
The fire at the Tata Electronics plant underscores the potential challenges Apple faces in its efforts to diversify its manufacturing operations away from China. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of global supply chains and the potential for disruptions to impact major tech companies.
Source: Tata iPhone component plant halts production indefinitely after fire