Tata’s iPhone Facility Halts Production Indefinitely After Blaze

Just hours after a major fire broke out at the Tata Electronics’ iPhone plant in Tamil Nadu’s Hosur, officials said that the production will remain suspended indefinitely at the facility in a bid to prevent further damage from the blaze. 

The plant– which makes critical back panels and other components for iPhones, was gearing up for iPhone assembly in another building before the end of this year. It is not yet clear whether it’s been impacted by the fire. 

“We have stationed fire engines at the plant as there are chances of a follow-up fire incident or smoke coming off when the sheds that had fallen during the accident are removed,”  M Velu, a district fire officer, told Reuters.

According to the report, the rescue teams were still clearing debris on Monday (September 30), adding that the inspections couldn’t have been completed due to the extensive damage. 

It is pertinent to note that on Saturday, a building at Tata’s Hosur facility collapsed due to a chemical related fire, cause of which is yet to be determined. 

Back then, Tata Electronics said in a statement that the company has been investigating the cause behind the blaze and will take necessary steps to ensure safety of its employees and stakeholders. 

“There has been an unfortunate incident of fire at our plant in Hosur, Tamil Nadu. Our emergency protocols at the plant ensured that all our employees are safe,” a Tata Electronics spokesperson said. 

The update comes as Tata Electronics looks to double the headcount of its Hosur plant. 

The company was looking to expand its Apple enclosure production in Hosur, setting up two new units and worker dormitories. 

While no comments have been made from Apple so far, 1 out of every 7 iPhones are currently made in India with the company eyeing to shift its supply chain from China. 

The company is said to be in advanced talks with Murugappa Group and Tata Group’s Titan to make iPhone camera modules in the country.

Additionally, the US based tech giant is also reportedly looking to begin manufacturing iPhone Pro and Pro Max models in India, starting with the iPhone 16 series as early as this fiscal year. 

Apart from iPhones, Apple is also considering manufacturing other flagship devices, iPads and AirPods in the country.