Raipur/Sakti, April 15 (NationPress) The tragic incident at the Vedanta Power Plant in Singhanatarai village of Chhattisgarh's Sakti district has resulted in a rising death toll of 14, with 20 labourers currently fighting for their lives in various hospitals. The devastating explosion took place around 2:30 p.m. on April 14, when a high-pressure boiler tube unexpectedly ruptured, releasing superheated steam at around 600 degrees Celsius.

At the time of the explosion, approximately 40 to 50 workers were present at the facility. Four workers lost their lives instantly, while many others suffered serious burns as the scorching steam enveloped the vicinity, particularly affecting those who were having their lunch or were in open parts of the plant.

Sakti Superintendent of Police Prafulla Thakur confirmed that the death toll has now reached 14. Initial reports indicated that there were 10 fatalities, but this number increased as more injured individuals succumbed to their injuries during treatment. 20 labourers continue to receive care in hospitals in Raigarh and beyond, with the condition of six being critical. Rescue and relief efforts by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, and fire services extended late into the night.

The Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow regarding the incident and extended condolences to the affected families.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai described the event as “extremely tragic and heart-wrenching.” In a statement on X, he shared, “I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones. The state government will provide financial support of ₹5 lakh to the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 to those injured. Proper and free medical treatment for all injured individuals has been ensured. I pray for their swift recovery.”

He has instructed the Commissioner of the Bilaspur division to conduct a comprehensive investigation and has promised strict action against anyone found responsible. Both the central and state governments have announced compensation: ₹7 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured, in addition to the state compensation package.

Former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel termed the incident regrettable and recalled a similar calamity at the Korba plant that resulted in 40 fatalities.

He called for the immediate formation of an inquiry committee and emphasized the need for strict measures against those accountable.

This tragedy has sent shockwaves through Chhattisgarh’s industrial sector, raising significant concerns regarding safety measures at thermal power plants. Officials have committed to a detailed investigation to ascertain the cause of the incident, which is suspected to involve overheating in the boiler tube.