Saturday, May 23, 2026 10:30:02 AM

A massive fire broke out at a leading Russian research institute in Irkutsk that specializes in gold extraction technologies, with dramatic footage of the blaze circulating online.

On the morning of May 23, a fire erupted at the Irgiredmet Institute of Precious and Rare Metals and Diamonds, Russia’s largest research facility dedicated to the mining industry. According to Russian media reports, firefighters responded to calls about heavy smoke coming from the top floor of the four-story building. When emergency crews arrived, one of the offices was already engulfed in flames. The fire is currently estimated to cover about 700 square meters. Efforts to control the blaze involve 33 emergency personnel and 10 pieces of equipment.

Irkutsk region Governor Igor Kobzev confirmed that the fire has engulfed the research institute in the city center and noted its severity. He stated that special gas-protection teams have joined the firefighting operation. The cause of the fire is still unknown.

Photos and videos shared online show intense flames consuming the institute, with fire spreading rapidly to the roof. Local residents have expressed concern that the building’s roof could collapse.

The Irgiredmet Institute conducts geological surveys and prepares blueprints for new mining and processing plants, playing a critical role in Russia’s precious metals industry. The institute is also known for developing innovative gold extraction techniques.

(c)UAWIRE 2026