Sept 17 (Reuters) - Energy Transfer ( ET ) said a fire

at its natural gas liquid (NGL) pipeline in La Porte, Texas,

which started on Monday, was still burning on Tuesday and a

state regulator said it would probably keep burning into the

afternoon.

The massive fire on Monday morning knocked out power to

thousands of homes and businesses and prompted an evacuation of

the area.

No serious injuries were reported and the pipeline was

isolated by midday for residual product to burn off, the company

said.

The fire occurred at a valve station on a 20-inch (50.8-cm)

pipeline used to carry NGLs, according to Energy Transfer ( ET ). NGLs

can be used as inputs for petrochemical plants or burned for

space heating and cooking, among other uses.

"Law enforcement agencies have initiated an investigation

into the cause of the incident," Energy Transfer ( ET ) said.

The Texas Railroad Commission (RRC), which regulates

the state's oil and gas industry said its inspectors were on the

site of the incident and will begin their investigation once

emergency officials have deemed the scene safe.

"Energy Transfer ( ET ) continues to blow down the remaining

gas in the pipeline section which could last into this

afternoon," RRC added.

Impacted land owners were being taken care of and have been

provided with lodging at area hotels, Energy Transfer ( ET ) said,

adding that this will continue until evacuation orders are

lifted.