10 Killed, 40 Injured As Boiler Explodes At Vedanta Power Plant in Chhattisgarh

Ten people were killed and over 40 others injured in an explosion at a power plant in Chhattisgarh's Sakti district on Tuesday, police said, adding that some workers are feared trapped at the site.

According to preliminary information, the blast occurred in a boiler tube at the Vedanta Limited power plant in Singhitarai village in the afternoon, a senior police officer said.

Soon after receiving information, local administration and police teams rushed to the spot and launched rescue operations.

The injured have been shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment, while rescue efforts are underway amid fears that some workers may still be trapped at the site, the officer added. 

"An unfortunate incident occurred at one of the boiler units at our Singhitarai plant on the afternoon of April 14, involving personnel from our sub-contractor, NGSL, which operates and maintains the unit. Our immediate priority is to ensure the best possible medical assistance and treatment for all those affected," a spokesperson from the power plant said. 

"We are extending full support to the injured and are closely coordinating with medical teams and local authorities. We are in the process of ascertaining details, and a thorough investigation has been initiated in coordination with our partner and relevant authorities," the spokesperson added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the incident "tragic" and announced financial assistance worth Rs 2 lakh for the victims. 

"The mishap at a power plant in Sakti district, Chhattisgarh, is tragic. I extend my condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover at the earliest. The local administration is assisting those affected. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000," he said.

Chief MInister Vishnu Deo Sai called the incident "extremely distressing and heart-wrenching."

"The news of the demise and injury of some workers in this accident is profoundly agonizing. My deepest condolences are with the bereaved families...The district administration is present at the scene, and relief and rescue operations are underway at a rapid pace. Necessary directives have been issued for the better treatment of the injured," he said.

He also assured a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident will be ensured. "Whosoever is found guilty in this matter will face the strictest possible action," he said.