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Delhi:At least 14 people were killed and 19 others injured in a tragic boiler blast (boiler blast )at a power plant operated by Vedanta Limited in Chhattisgarh’s Sakti district on Tuesday afternoon.
The incident occurred around 2:30 pm at the Singhitarai power plant when a boiler tube burst, releasing superheated steam estimated to be nearly 600°C. The victims, mostly labourers, were caught off guard as many were resting or resuming work after lunch.
According to district officials, the high-temperature steam spread rapidly across the area, severely injuring workers present in open spaces. Several others working at heights were also affected.
Sakti Collector Amrit Vikas Topno confirmed that a magisterial inquiry has been ordered to investigate the cause of the blast. Authorities have assured that all injured workers are receiving the best possible medical treatment.
In an official statement, Vedanta said the incident took place in Unit 1 of the boiler system and involved workers from its business partner. The company expressed regret and stated that its immediate priority is to provide medical assistance and support to those affected, while also cooperating with authorities in the investigation.
Eyewitness Ajit Naskar, a worker from West Bengal, described the moment of the explosion. He said workers had just resumed duties after lunch when a loud blast was heard, followed by thick smoke. Many workers were at a height of around 17 metres during painting work. Some managed to escape, while others were trapped.
Rescue operations began after the boiler was shut down and cooled. According to Sakti Superintendent of Police Prafull Thakur, all workers have since been rescued from the site.
Most of the injured have been admitted to hospitals in nearby Raigarh, while a few have been shifted to Bilaspur for advanced treatment.
Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives and announced an ex gratia of ₹2 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund.
Vishnu Deo Sai also termed the incident “extremely distressing” and announced ₹5 lakh compensation for the families of those who died and ₹50,000 for the injured. He assured that the state government will ensure free treatment for all victims.
The Chief Minister further stated that a thorough and impartial investigation will be conducted, and strict action will be taken against anyone found responsible.
Authorities continue to assess the situation as the focus remains on treatment, compensation, and determining accountability for the deadly accident.
