What is the Latest on the Explosion at the Russian Explosives Factory?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The tragic explosion at a Russian explosives factory has left 20 dead and over 130 injured, prompting a criminal investigation into safety violations. With this being the second deadly incident at the plant in less than a year, authorities declare a day of mourning, while emergency responders continue their search efforts.
Key Takeaways
- Death toll rises to 20 after explosion.
- 134 individuals were injured.
- Explosion occurred at the Elastik synthetic fiber plant.
- Investigation into safety violations underway.
- Second deadly incident at the plant since last year.
Moscow, Aug 18 (NationPress) The death toll from the explosion that occurred on Friday at an explosives factory in Ryazan, Russia, has tragically risen to 20, with 134 others sustaining injuries, according to emergency officials on Monday.
The blast transpired at the Elastik synthetic fiber plant located in the village of Lesnoy, approximately 250 kilometers southeast of Moscow.
The explosion originated in a gunpowder workshop that was reportedly completely destroyed, as reported by The Moscow Times, citing the state-run media Ria Novosti. The factory produces industrial explosives, anti-armour warheads, and gas generators for submarines, according to local reports.
Authorities have launched a criminal investigation into potential violations of industry safety regulations, though no arrests have been made so far. The Ryazan area authorities declared a day of mourning on Friday.
On Monday, the Russian Emergency Situations Ministry reported that first responders had cleared approximately half of the blast site and were utilizing K-9 units to search for any survivors.
This incident marks the second deadly explosion at the Elastik plant since October 21 of the previous year, when 21 people lost their lives in a workshop operated by the explosives producer Razryad. The plant, which was once part of the state defense conglomerate Rostec, ceased operations in 2018 but is currently identified as a private weapons and ammunition manufacturer under the name “Zavod Elastik” in corporate filings.
Earlier on August 9, a separate incident resulted in 36 injuries following an explosion caused by a gas-air mixture in a brick building in Sterlitamak, located in Russia's Bashkortostan Republic, as reported by Alexei Kuznetsov, aide to Russia's Minister of Health Mikhail Murashko.
The regional investigators confirmed that 36 individuals were injured, with 22 requiring hospitalization, although the precise numbers were still being verified.
Reports indicated that 27 individuals were taken to hospitals following the explosion at the Bashkir Soda Company.
The company stated that the explosion was triggered by a pipeline leak during preparations for a scheduled shutdown for major repairs at the vinyl chloride-polyvinyl chloride complex, as reported by Xinhua News Agency.
The statement added, “There is no threat to the population's life and health. Continuous monitoring of environmental quality has been implemented in the nearby area. All injured personnel received immediate emergency assistance on-site and were promptly transported to medical facilities for specialized care. No fatalities have been reported.”
Point of View
It is imperative to approach this tragic event with sensitivity and a commitment to uncovering the truth. The loss of life in the explosion at the Elastik factory raises serious questions about industrial safety regulations in Russia. Our responsibility lies in providing comprehensive and authoritative coverage to inform the public while honoring those affected.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the explosion at the Elastik factory?
The explosion occurred in a gunpowder workshop and is currently under investigation for potential safety violations.
How many people were injured in the incident?
A total of 134 individuals sustained injuries as a result of the explosion.
Has anyone been arrested in connection to the explosion?
As of now, authorities have not made any arrests, but a criminal investigation is ongoing.
What measures are being taken for the victims?
Emergency responders provided immediate assistance to the injured, and many were transported to medical facilities for further care.
Is there a history of incidents at the Elastik plant?
Yes, this is the second deadly explosion at the Elastik plant in less than a year.
