Chhattisgarh Power Plant Explosion/ SAKTI: A massive explosion at a power plant operated by Vedanta Limited in Chhattisgarh’s Sakti district on Tuesday afternoon has left at least nine employees feared dead. The incident, which occurred around 2:00 PM, has triggered a large-scale rescue operation as several others remain trapped or critically injured.
The blast took place in the boiler unit of the facility located in Singhitarai village. Preliminary reports suggest the explosion originated from a boiler tube within Unit 1 of the thermal power plant. The impact was so severe that it caused an immediate stampede-like situation among the workforce on-site.
Sakti Superintendent of Police, Prafull Thakur, confirmed that rescue teams are working against time to reach those still stuck inside the facility. “Some individuals are feared trapped, and the rescue operation is currently underway. We have successfully rescued a number of laborers so far,” Thakur stated.
To facilitate safer access for the rescue teams, the police have directed plant authorities to shut down the boiler operations. “We have asked the officials to cease work so the unit can cool down, allowing our teams to advance further into the affected area. Additional reinforcements have been summoned to assist,” the SP added.
In an official response, Vedanta Limited Chhattisgarh Thermal Power Plant expressed regret over the industrial accident. The company confirmed that the incident involved employees of their business partner, NGSL, who were stationed at the Singhitarai plant.
“Our primary focus remains the provision of immediate medical assistance and top-tier treatment for all those affected,” the Vedanta statement read. The company further noted that they are working in close coordination with medical teams and local administration to support the injured.
Witnesses at the scene described a chaotic environment immediately following the blast. Many workers sustained severe burn injuries, while others were struck by debris. Rescue personnel have been seen shifting the injured to nearby hospitals for emergency care.
The management has initiated a high-level probe into the technical failure. “We are in the process of gathering comprehensive details regarding the event. A full investigation has been launched in collaboration with our partners and relevant authorities to determine the exact cause of the explosion,” the company spokesperson said.
