The Central government has assured permanent employment, housing within plant premises, and educational support for children of workers killed in the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant accident, Union Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu said on Tuesday, 9 June. The tragedy occurred when a ladle carrying molten steel at approximately 1,500 degrees Celsius exploded, causing a large quantity of molten iron to leak at the facility.

What Triggered the Accident

According to officials, the incident was set off when a steel-carrying ladle burst at extremely high temperatures, releasing molten iron across the work site. Minister Rammohan Naidu described the site assessment as particularly difficult, noting that this is reportedly the first time such a tragedy has occurred at a steel plant in the country.

Relief and Compensation Announced

Union Steel Minister H. D. Kumaraswamy has announced a compensation of ₹25 lakh for the families of each deceased worker. Beyond the financial payout, the Centre has proposed that family members of those killed be given permanent jobs within the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant itself. The children of the deceased will have their education funded by the plant, and bereaved families will be provided residential accommodation within the plant premises.

'The Union government has also proposed permanent employment in the steel plant itself for the family members of those who have lost their lives. Their children's education will also be taken care of by the steel plant. They will also be provided residence within the premises of the steel plant,' Rammohan Naidu said.

Investigation Underway

The Ministry of Steel has constituted an investigation committee to determine the cause of the explosion and assess the full extent of the damage. Rammohan Naidu confirmed he and Kumaraswamy attempted to inspect the site following the incident. Proper medical treatment is being ensured for all those injured, he added.

State Government Steps In

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has spoken directly with Union Steel Minister Kumaraswamy, requesting a thorough probe and maximum support for affected families. 'Support will definitely be provided from the state government also,' Rammohan Naidu said, adding that the Centre has committed to prioritising worker safety at the plant going forward.

This comes amid longstanding concerns over safety standards at large public-sector steel facilities. With a formal investigation now underway, the findings are expected to shape future safety protocols at steel plants across the country.