What Happened When a Steel Arch Collapsed in Chennai's Thermal Power Station?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
A routine installation turned tragic when a steel arch collapsed at Chennai's Ennore SEZ thermal power project, claiming the lives of nine workers from Assam. This incident raises critical concerns about safety practices for migrant laborers in large industrial projects. Stay tuned for more details on this devastating event.
Key Takeaways
- Nine workers tragically died in a steel arch collapse.
- Incident occurred at the Ennore SEZ thermal power project.
- Investigation underway to determine cause of collapse.
- Workers were predominantly migrant laborers.
- Government pledges support for affected families.
Chennai, Sep 30 (NationPress) A standard installation task transformed into a tragedy on Tuesday when a substantial steel arch collapsed at the Ennore Special Economic Zone (SEZ) thermal power project, resulting in the deaths of nine contractual workers from Assam and leaving another injured.
The incident took place in the Stage 4 area of the plant, where a group of 10 workers was engaged in fitting a steel arch cover over a coal handling unit.
This structure, intended to protect coal stockpiles, unexpectedly gave way, causing all 10 individuals to fall.
"Despite the presence of safety features like harnesses, the collapse was sudden. Nine workers were pronounced dead upon arrival at Stanley Medical College Hospital, while one individual sustained minor injuries and is in stable condition," stated J. Radhakrishnan, Tamil Nadu's Additional Chief Secretary and health spokesperson.
The deceased were taken to Stanley Hospital and subsequently moved to the mortuary for autopsy.
Hospital officials identified the victims as Munnakemprai, Vidayum Pravotsha, Sumon Karikap, Deepak Raijiung, Sarbojit Thausen, Pranto Sorong, Paban Sorong, Phaibit Phonglo, and Bimaraj Thausen.
All were contractual employees employed through a subcontractor of Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL).
During his visit to the hospital, Radhakrishnan mentioned that the state government is collaborating with BHEL safety officials.
"Although safety precautions were reportedly implemented, the abrupt collapse left them with no time to react. The government will extend any necessary assistance," he added, noting that efforts are underway to inform the families and facilitate the return of the bodies to Assam.
The Ennore SEZ thermal power project is a 2×660 MW capacity facility currently under phased construction.
While Stages 1, 2, and 3 are operational, Stage 4 — where the incident occurred — is 70% complete and still undergoing extensive work.
Officials estimate nearly 3,200 workers, primarily migrant laborers from various states, are present on site daily.
Authorities and safety inspectors are probing the cause of the collapse and evaluating whether the structure adhered to required standards.
In the meantime, security measures have been heightened at Stanley Hospital as families and representatives from labor unions prepare to arrive.
This incident has sparked pressing inquiries regarding safety regulations in large-scale industrial projects where migrant workers constitute the core of the workforce.
Point of View
Particularly where migrant workers are involved. The loss of nine lives is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities these workers face. As a nation, we must prioritize the protection of all laborers to ensure such tragedies do not occur in the future.
NationPress
30/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the steel arch to collapse?
Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the collapse and whether the structure met safety standards.
What safety measures were in place at the time of the incident?
While safety features like harnesses were reportedly in place, the sudden nature of the collapse left little chance for the workers to react.
How many workers were involved in the installation?
A total of 10 workers were fitting the steel arch cover at the time of the collapse.
What is the condition of the survivor?
One worker survived with minor abrasions and lacerations and is reported to be in stable condition.
What steps is the government taking in response to this tragedy?
The state government is coordinating with BHEL safety officers and is working to assist the families of the deceased.
