Horrifying reactor blast at factory in southern India results in fatal injuries
by ShravyaIn a tragic incident in southern India’s Andhra Pradesh, a reactor blast at a factory led to the death of 17 workers and left over 30 others injured.
The incident took place at Escientia Advanced Sciences Private Limited in Atchutapuram SEZ, Rambilli Mandal, Anakapalle district, on August 21.
Visuals showed ambulances rushing to the factory unit, which was engulfed in smoke. Workers and bystanders, wearing masks, were seen protecting themselves from the dust dispersed in the atmosphere after the blast. The scene was chaotic, with people in distress, and hospitals were overwhelmed as the injured were brought in with severe injuries. Joint Collector Jahnavi was spotted visiting the hospital, where she spoke to the injured workers.
According to reports, the reactor blast occurred at around 2.15 pm, triggering a massive fire. Officials fear the death toll may rise as rescue operations, involving NDRF and SDRF teams, are still ongoing. The injured are being transported to King George Hospital (KGH) in Visakhapatnam, while rescue workers continue to clear the debris from the collapsed first-floor slab.
Health Secretary MT Krishna Babu has been directed to rush to Anakapalle, and the Chief Minister has authorized the use of air ambulances if necessary. The CM is expected to visit the site on Thursday to meet with the injured and offer support.
Officials have yet to confirm the exact number of workers present at the time of the blast, but reports suggest that several people are still trapped under the debris. Six fire tenders were dispatched to the site immediately, with additional equipment mobilized from nearby stations. The district Collector and SP are overseeing the rescue efforts.