Tata Electronics ceases iPhone parts manufacturing in India after catastrophic fire

Photo – Press Trust of India

Tata Electronics has halted iPhone production at its facility in Tamil Nadu, India, following a major fire incident. The fire broke out in the early hours of September 28, 2024, resulting in injuries to around ten individuals.

News just in: Fire broke out at Tata Electronics Private Limited (TEPL) facility near Hosur in Krishnagiri district of Tamil Nadu on Saturday morning. It is believed to have started in the mobile phone accessories painting unit of the company located in Uddanapalli, near… https://t.co/TFGjU4iOW9 pic.twitter.com/8tJvjl0t0J

— Chandra R. Srikanth (@chandrarsrikant) September 28, 2024

The cause of the fire has yet to be determined, but officials describe the site as “very badly burnt.”The smoke and damage have made it difficult to assess the extent of the destruction. Authorities continue to investigate how such an incident occurred at this vital manufacturing location.

Tata has confirmed that all safety protocols were adhered to during the emergency and that all employees were successfully evacuated. The company has opted to cease production indefinitely as rescue teams work to remove debris. A district fire officer mentioned that fire engines have been temporarily stationed at the factory to prevent any secondary fires while collapsed structures are cleared.

The Tamil Nadu plant is responsible for producing essential components like the iPhone’s back panel. Another building within the facility was planned to start iPhone assembly operations by the end of this year, a timeline now clouded with uncertainty.

Apple has been progressively increasing its production capacity in India, with reports suggesting the company aims to expand its Indian workforce to 500,000 over the next three years, as it shifts a significant portion of its supply chain from China. In addition to Tata, Apple collaborates with Foxconn and Pegatron, both of which have established large operations in India.

Despite these advancements, Apple faces various challenges in its Indian operations. Recent quality control issues during the assembly of the iPhone 15 series forced the company to shift some production back to China. This recent fire incident further complicates Apple’s endeavors in the region.

via Reuters

Source