What Led to the Telangana Pharma Unit Blast That Caused 39 Deaths?
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Synopsis
The tragic event at Sigachi Industries Ltd has left 39 dead and many injured. As investigations continue, the community seeks answers and support for the victims' families. This incident highlights the urgent need for safety in industrial operations.
Key Takeaways
- 39 fatalities reported from the explosion.
- Investigation underway to determine causes.
- Support provided to injured workers.
- Community impacted by the tragedy.
- Need for improved industrial safety measures.
Hyderabad, July 4 (NationPress) The casualty count in the devastating fire and explosion at Sigachi Industries Ltd's production facility in Pashamylaram, situated near Hyderabad, has tragically increased to 39 on Friday as one of the injured individuals passed away at the hospital.
Bheem Rao, a worker who was being treated at Dhruva Hospital in Patancheru, succumbed to his injuries on Friday. He hailed from Maharashtra.
On Thursday, Sigachi Industries updated the death toll to 38 from the previously reported 40.
The company disclosed that among the 33 injured employees, 12 have already been discharged, each receiving Rs 1 lakh as interim financial aid. They have committed to providing complete medical and rehabilitation assistance to those affected.
An investigation is currently underway, led by the Chief Secretary of Telangana, to evaluate the incident and its causes, with preliminary findings expected within a week.
Sangareddy District Collector P. Pravinya confirmed that 31 bodies have been identified, while nine workers are still unaccounted for.
Of the 143 individuals present at the factory during the explosion, 61 managed to escape unharmed.
Rescue teams discovered 20 skeletal remains during a thorough search of the wreckage, which have been sent for DNA analysis.
According to Superintendent of Police Paritosh Pankaj, 95% of the DNA collection has been finished, with the remainder to be completed once families arrive in Sangareddy.
A high-level committee chaired by the Chief Secretary is expected to visit the accident site on Friday.
The state committee has been tasked with investigating the incident's causes, comprising key officials including the Chief Secretary, Special Chief Secretary (Disaster Management), Principal Secretary (Labour), Principal Secretary (Health), and Additional DGP (Fire Services).
The state government has also formed a four-member expert committee, led by B. Venkateshwar Rao, Emeritus Scientist at CSIR-IICT, to determine the causes and circumstances surrounding the catastrophic explosion.
The committee includes T. Prathap Kumar, Chief Scientist at CSIR-IICT, Surya Narayana, a retired scientist from CSIR-CLRI, and Santosh Ghuge, Safety Officer at CSIR-NCL, Pune.
A major explosion struck the plant in Pashamylaram, Patancheru Mandal, Sangareddy district on June 30, where Microcrystalline Cellulose powder, a binding agent for tablets and capsules, is manufactured.
Point of View
It is essential to approach this heartbreaking incident with empathy and a commitment to uncovering the truth. The loss of life and injuries sustained by workers demand a thorough investigation and accountability from the company involved. We stand with the affected families and urge for improved safety protocols in industrial settings.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the explosion at Sigachi Industries?
The exact cause is still under investigation, with a high-level committee formed to determine the details.
How many fatalities have been reported?
As of now, the death toll has risen to 39.
What support is being provided to the victims' families?
The company has announced interim relief of Rs 1 lakh for each injured employee and will provide full medical and rehabilitation support.
How many people were present during the explosion?
143 individuals were on the factory premises at the time of the explosion.
Is there any ongoing investigation into the incident?
Yes, a comprehensive investigation led by the Chief Secretary is currently ongoing.
