At least 11 workers were killed and 22 others injured after a boiler tube exploded at a power plant operated by Vedanta Ltd in Chhattisgarh’s Sakti district on Tuesday.
The incident took place at the company’s facility in Singhitarai village during the afternoon. According to Sakti Superintendent of Police Prafull Thakur, the blast occurred in a boiler tube, though the exact cause is yet to be determined.
Casualties Rise as Injured Succumb in Hospital
Police said four workers died on the spot, while seven others later succumbed to injuries during treatment, taking the death toll to 11.
The 22 injured workers have been admitted to hospitals in the neighbouring Raigarh district, where they are undergoing treatment.
Officials said the condition of some of the injured remains serious.
Rescue Operations Launched Amid High Temperatures
Following the explosion, police and local administration teams rushed to the site and began rescue operations. The area around the boiler remained extremely hot, making it difficult for teams to access parts of the plant immediately.
Authorities evacuated workers and staff from nearby sections as a precaution.
State Government Orders Probe
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai described the incident as “extremely tragic” and expressed condolences to the families of the victims.
He said a detailed investigation would be conducted to determine the cause of the explosion and assured that strict action would be taken against those found responsible.
Company Response and Investigation Underway
In a statement, Vedanta said the blast occurred in one of the boiler units involving personnel from its subcontractor, NTPC GE Power Services Ltd, which operates and maintains the unit.
The company said its immediate priority is to provide the best possible medical care to those affected and that it is working closely with local authorities and medical teams.
It added that a thorough investigation has been initiated to ascertain the circumstances leading to the explosion.
Understanding Boiler Explosions
A power plant boiler is a high pressure system that converts water into steam using heat energy. This steam drives turbines to generate electricity. Any failure in such systems, especially under high pressure and temperature, can lead to catastrophic explosions.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident as questions are raised about industrial safety and maintenance practices at the plant.
