Two explosions within a space of about five minutes rocked a sprawling chemical plant in southern Yerevan at about 6.40 pm Thursday.

The explosions were followed by a huge fire at a chloroprene production shop at Nairit, the region’s largest synthetic rubber producing plant. The two explosions could be heard by residents living in the nearby area.

Sixteen fire-fighting vehicles reportedly rushed to the scene soon after the incident and were fighting fire late on Thursday. The fire rated as 'huge' was reportedly localized.

Police had sealed off the area leading to the plant and part of at least one broad avenue, Bagratunyats, in the capital’s Shengavit district was blocked for pedestrians and motorists.