A major fire broke out in a section of the country's premier National Chemical Laboratory in Pune in Maharashtra on Sunday evening, fire brigade sources said.

The blaze engulfed the Organic Technical branch of NCL. Leaping flames and plumes of billowing smoke could be seen from a distance.

The exact cause of fire is not yet known. Nearly 12 fire engines and water tankers are battling the blaze.

Police officials have cordoned off the area as a precautionary measure.

Established in 1950, NCL, a research, development and consulting organisation, is internationally renowned for scientific research in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering and industrial research.