Officials have reported that the tragic incident at a Vedanta power plant in Chhattisgarh resulted in the deaths of 11 individuals, who were exposed to superheated steam released from a ruptured boiler pipeline. In response, a magisterial inquiry has been initiated, as confirmed by Sakti district collector Amrit Vikas Topno.
The explosion took place around 2:30 PM in a boiler tube located in Singhitarai village. A senior district official stated, “Following the burst of the pipeline, steam heated to approximately 600 degrees fell upon workers who were having their lunch. Others who were moving about in the vicinity also sustained injuries.”
Prafull Thakur, the Superintendent of Police for Sakti district, mentioned, “We have recorded 10 fatalities; one victim is from Sakti, while the others hail from various states. Efforts are underway to identify them. Additionally, 23 individuals have been reported injured.”
Ajit Naskar, a West Bengal worker present at the site, recounted the events, saying, “I have been employed here for over a month, performing painting duties. The incident occurred shortly after we resumed work post-lunch. I suddenly heard a loud explosion, followed by thick smoke. We were positioned 17 meters high; I managed to find shelter inside a cupboard, while others ran to escape. At the moment, around 40 to 50 workers were involved in painting activities.”
Following the blast, a crowd of protesters gathered outside the facility. Among them was Chandra Sen Patel, who stated, “My father, who worked as a housekeeper, died instantly.” Local Congress MLA Ram Kumar Yadav was also present at the scene.
Thakur indicated that numerous workers were successfully rescued. “We instructed the authorities to cease boiler operations, and once it had cooled, we commenced our rescue efforts. All individuals have been accounted for.”
Chhattisgarh’s Chief Minister, Vishnu Deo Sai, assured that a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the incident would be conducted, emphasizing that those found responsible would face the severest consequences.
In a statement, the Vedanta Limited Chhattisgarh Thermal Power Plant expressed, “Our primary focus is to provide the highest quality medical care and support to all affected individuals. We are currently gathering information, and a detailed investigation is underway in collaboration with our partners and the relevant authorities.”
