Death Toll Rises To 13 In Explosion At Pharma Company In Andhra Pradesh's Anakapalle, Several Injured

In Andhra Pradesh's Anakapalle district, the blast took place during lunchtime, which likely prevented an even greater disaster as fewer workers were present near the reactor at the time.

The death toll in the fire accident caused due to a reactor explosion at a pharmaceutical company in Andhra Pradesh's Anakapalle district rose to 13. The explosion occurred on Wednesday at the Escientia Company’s plant located within the Achutapuram Special Economic Zone (SEZ). The 40-acre privately held manufacturing unit was operational since 2019.

Smoke billowed from Escientia's plant in the Achutapuram SEZ, enveloping the surrounding areas. The firefighters were immediately rushed for service.

The blast took place during lunchtime, which likely prevented an even greater disaster as fewer workers were present near the reactor at the time. Visuals from the scene show thick smoke billowing from the reactor, spreading to the surrounding villages and causing panic among the residents, according to a report on NDTV.

The injured workers were swiftly transported to NTR Hospital, where they are receiving medical treatment. Authorities have initiated relief and rescue operations at the site, with the District Collector and the Superintendent of Police en route to oversee the situation.

"An inquiry has been initiated to identify the exact reason that led to the blast," district collector Vijaya Krishnan's office told news agency Reuters.

"Ten fire tenders were involved in rescue operations. The fire is largely under control," the office added.

Initially, two deaths were reported with over 30 people injured. However, later the death toll rose to seven and has risen since. It is feared that the death toll could be higher, and some workers may still be trapped under the debris.

CM Chandrababu Naidu To Visit SEZ Tomorrow

Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu expressed grief over the loss of lives in the incident. He assured that the government stands with the bereaved families.

Naidu on Thursday is set to visit the SEZ where the accident took place.

As per sources, he will inspect the accident site and meet the families of the deceased. He will also visit the injured who are receiving treatment in the hospital.

The Chief Minister has already directed officials to take necessary rescue measures.

Earlier today, he spoke with the Anakapalli Collector to inquire about the medical aid being provided to the injured. The CM also advised that air ambulances be used in case an injured requires swift treatment.

On Wednesday, five individuals sustained injuries in an explosion resulting from a cooking gas leak from a cylinder in the Pimpri Chinchwad area near Pune city early, according to officials. The incident took place at around 5:30 am in a room in Bauddh Nagar at Pimpri, where the victims reside, as reported by a fire brigade official. "The explosion occurred after one of the residents turned on the gas stove," he explained, as reported by PTI.

Meanwhile, two people were killed in a blast at an unlicensed private stone quarry in the district late on August 20.

One of the victims was from Karnataka and both were employed at the quarry. Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin expressed his condolences. He also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 3 lakh each for the victims' families, officials reported on Wednesday.