Hyderabad, April 15: The death toll in the Vedanta Ltd power plant blast in Chhattisgarh has risen to 16. Three injured workers died on Wednesday, police confirmed.
The explosion occurred at the plant in Sakti district on Tuesday. It took place in a high pressure steam pipeline linking the boiler and turbine. The blast caused severe burn injuries to several workers.
Officials said four workers died on the spot. Nine others died shortly after the incident. Later, three more succumbed in hospitals in Raigarh and Raipur.
Chhattisgarh Vedanta power plant blast sparks probe demands
Eighteen workers were injured in the incident. Four are under treatment in Raipur, while others remain in hospitals in Raigarh. Authorities are monitoring their condition closely.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai announced Rs 5 lakh compensation for each deceased worker’s family. Injured persons will receive Rs 50,000.
Vedanta Ltd also announced compensation. Families of the deceased will get Rs 35 lakh and employment support. Injured workers will receive Rs 15 lakh and continued salary during recovery.
The state government has ordered a high level inquiry. The Bilaspur division Commissioner will lead the probe. In addition, a magisterial inquiry has been initiated at the district level.
Meanwhile, the Sub Divisional Magistrate of Dabhra will submit a report within 30 days. The probe will examine technical faults, human error, and safety compliance.
The opposition Indian National Congress demanded a judicial probe. It also sought an FIR against the plant management. Leaders alleged negligence and called for higher compensation.
The power project has a planned capacity of 1200 MW. Vedanta Ltd acquired it in 2022. One unit became operational in August last year, while another is under construction.
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