The number of deaths from the explosion at a Telangana chemical factory rose to 34 on Tuesday. Initially, officials reported 12 deaths, but rescue teams later found more bodies under the debris.
Police Confirm Casualties
According to District Superintendent of Police Paritosh Pankaj, rescue workers discovered several more victims. “Several bodies have been found under the debris while removing it. As many as 31 bodies have been extricated from the debris while three died in hospital while undergoing treatment. The last leg of the rescue operation is still going on,” he told PTI.
Chief Minister to Visit Blast Site
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy is scheduled to visit the accident site on Tuesday morning. He will assess the situation and speak with officials on the ground.
Reactor Blast Causes Massive Explosion
On Monday, a suspected reactor explosion triggered a huge blast and fire at the Sigachi Chemical Industry in Pashamylaram. Speaking to the media, State Health Minister Damodar Rajanarasimha said about 90 workers were inside the factory at the time.
He explained, “The explosion blew up the industrial shed completely and the force of the blast was so intense that some of the workers were thrown up in the air and they fell down about 100 metres away.”
Emergency Teams Begin Rescue Operation
Soon after the explosion, rescue and firefighting teams rushed to the site. They managed to recover at least 10 bodies during the early hours of the operation.
Although the exact cause of the explosion remains unknown, officials suspect it may have been caused by a chemical reaction.
Multiple Agencies Continue Rescue Efforts
On Tuesday, local media reported that the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), HYDRAA, and the Telangana Fire Disaster Response teams continued rescue work at the site.
They searched through the rubble and supported injured workers.
Governor Expresses Grief and Support
In response to the tragedy, Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma shared his condolences. He offered sympathy to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
Additionally, the Governor spoke with M. Dan Kishore, Principal Secretary of the Labour, Employment Training and Factories (LETF) Department. He instructed him to extend all possible assistance to the victims.