What caused Andhra factory explosion that killed 17
The death toll from the devastating explosion at a pharmaceutical plant in Anakapalli, Andhra Pradesh, has risen to 17. The blast occurred on Wednesday at the Escientia Advanced Sciences facility, a sprawling complex spread over 40 acres. In addition to the fatalities, another 34 people have been reported injured in this incident.
Blast originated from a chemical reactor
The explosion at the Escientia Advanced Sciences plant is believed to have originated from a chemical reactor. Following the incident, injured workers with severe burns and blood-soaked bodies were transported to hospitals in ambulances. The company, which manufactures intermediate chemicals and active pharmaceutical ingredients (API), began operations in April 2019 with an investment of ₹200 crore.
High-level inquiry ordered into the incident
Andhra Pradesh Chief MinisterChandrababu Naidu has ordered a high-level inquiry into the incident. He promised strict action against the management if negligence is found to be the cause. District Police Superintendent M Deepika confirmed that rescue operations are complete with a final toll of 17 dead and 34 injured. Investigators believe the blast was caused by a gas leak that eventually reached an electrical panel.
Escientia Advanced Sciences operates within SEZ
The facility is situated on a 40-acre campus within the Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation's multi-product SEZ at the Atchutapuram cluster. The damage could have been worse, but fewer workers were in the plant at the time of the accident due to lunchtime. While reports suggest the accident was due to a reactor blast, officials said that the incident occurred when solvent oil was being pumped between floors, causing a leak that led to a fire and subsequent explosion.
Authorities not keeping us informed: Relatives of victims
Relatives of the victims expressed their distress, stating that authorities were not keeping them informed about the developments or the whereabouts of their affected family members. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge expressed condolences for the loss of lives in the tragic fire and urged the government to take measures to prevent such incidents in future. Notably, the company has two R&D centers in Connecticut (US) and Hyderabad, as well as a commercial manufacturing site at Anakapalli.
