Vizag Steel Plant Accident: 8 Workers Killed, Several Injured in Molten Steel Spill
A catastrophic industrial accident shook the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant (Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited) on Monday, leaving at least eight workers dead and several others critically injured. The tragedy occurred in the Steel Melting Shop-2 (SMS-2) department of the facility.
According to preliminary reports, the disaster took place while ladles carrying molten steel (hot metal) at extremely high temperatures were being transported via a conveyor/crane system. In an unexpected mechanical failure, the heavy ladles collapsed, causing the scalding liquid steel to spill directly onto the workers operating underneath.
Eight workers were instantly charred to death due to the extreme heat of the molten metal, while those in the immediate vicinity sustained severe burn injuries.
Upon receiving the information, fire tenders and plant security officials rushed to the spot on a war footing. Emergency personnel are currently working to douse the flames and clear the debris. The injured workers were immediately evacuated and rushed to a nearby hospital, where they are undergoing emergency medical treatment. Plant officials have expressed grave concern that the death toll might rise, as the condition of several injured workers remains highly critical.
An official inquiry has been initiated by the plant management to investigate the technical lapses and the exact cause leading to the collapse of the ladle system.
AP CM Chandrababu Naidu Expresses Deep Shock, Orders High-Level Review
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed profound grief and shock over the tragic loss of lives. Promptly responding to the incident, the Chief Minister held an emergency review meeting with top officials to assess the ground situation.
"Rescue and relief operations must be carried out on a war footing. Every single department needs to work in absolute coordination to safely rescue anyone trapped inside," CM Naidu directed the administration.
Advanced Medical Aid: Officials have been strictly ordered to ensure the highest quality medical treatment for all injured workers.
Local ministers and district administration officials have been instructed to personally visit the accident site and supervise the relief operations.
The Chief Minister assured that the state government stands firmly by the bereaved families and emphasized that financial and logistical aid must be extended without any delay.
A somber atmosphere has enveloped the steel plant and its residential townships as rescue operations continue amid fears of rising casualties.