New Delhi: The death toll in the explosion at a thermal power plant operated by Vedanta Limited in Chhattisgarh’s Singhtarai has climbed to 23 after two more injured workers succumbed during treatment.
The incident occurred on April 14 and left several workers critically injured. Officials said one victim died at a hospital in Raipur, while another passed away at a medical college in Raigarh. At least 12 workers continue to receive treatment, according to media reports.
A preliminary inquiry by the chief boiler inspector has attributed the explosion to excessive fuel accumulation inside the furnace, which caused a rapid pressure build-up. The pressure reportedly dislodged a lower pipe, resulting in structural failure and triggering the blast. Findings from the Forensic Science Laboratory in Sakti have corroborated the initial assessment.
A report has been submitted to local authorities and the police in Dabhra. A central team is scheduled to visit on Saturday for a detailed investigation to establish the sequence of events and fix responsibility.
Police have registered a case on the directions of Superintendent of Police Prafull Thakur. The case names Vedanta Director Anil Agarwal, company Manager Devendra Patel, and other officials, citing preliminary evidence of negligence.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the incident and announced financial assistance for the victims’ families. He said the tragedy in Sakti district was deeply saddening and extended condolences to those who lost their loved ones. He also announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund.
