Now Reading: Blast at Yadadri pharma unit kills 2, injures 9
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Blast at Yadadri pharma unit kills 2, injures 9
A chemical reactor explosion at Hazelo Pharma in Dothigudem, Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district, sparked a massive fire on Friday night, killing two workers and injuring nine others. The deceased were identified as Ch Nagi Reddy (31) and N Naresh Kumar (29). Residents of nearby villages fled their homes in panic as the blast occurred.
Police and fire services rushed to the site and brought the blaze under control. Injured workers were shifted to a hospital. Officials suspect mixing of different chemicals caused the reactor blast. Bhoodan Pochampally police have registered a case and launched an investigation.
The Telangana State Pollution Control Board ordered the immediate closure of Hazelo Lab Private Limited, formerly Venlar Labs, citing non-compliance, environmental violations and the fatal accident. Inspections found structural damage, chemical spillages, contaminated wastewater runoff and unresolved odour complaints. The board warned of fines and up to six years in prison for any attempt to restart operations.
Indian Opinion Analysis
This is the latest in a series of industrial accidents at chemical and pharma units in Telangana, which has faced scrutiny over safety enforcement. The TGPCB's closure order is immediate, but the plant's owners could challenge it in court. Under the Environment Protection Act, fines can reach Rs 1 lakh per day of violation. Workers in such units often lack formal safety training. The key number to watch is how soon the government files a chargesheet, as delays often weaken prosecution under the Factories Act.
Source: newindianexpress.com
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