The death toll from the boiler explosion at a Vedanta power plant in Chhattisgarh’s Sakti has risen to 14, while around 20 injured workers remain under treatment with several of them in critical condition, in what is being described as one of the most serious industrial tragedies in recent history.
The incident occurred around 2.30 pm on Tuesday at the company’s thermal power facility in Singhitarai, when a tube carrying high-pressure steam from the boiler to the turbine exploded with immense force. The blast caused severe burn injuries to workers present at the site, many of whom were engaged in maintenance and painting work.
Four workers died on the spot, while others succumbed to their injuries during treatment at various hospitals. In total, around 30 workers were injured in the incident.
“So far, 14 people have died, and 20 are still under treatment across various hospitals. Five individuals have been sent for advanced treatment. Initial assessments suggest no more people are trapped, though thorough checks have been conducted,” Sakti Superintendent of Police, Praful Thakur, said after an hours-long rescue operation.
Preliminary findings suggest that the explosion was triggered by a leak in the high-pressure steam tube connected to the boiler unit. The force of the blast caused extensive damage and triggered panic among workers.
Eyewitnesses described the explosion as catastrophic. Ajit Das Kar, a worker from West Bengal, said it felt “like a missile had landed.” “We had just finished lunch when there was a massive blast and thick smoke spread everywhere. I was working at a height and managed to save myself by hiding. Those below were badly burnt,” he said.
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai termed the incident “extremely tragic” and announced an ex gratia of Rs 5 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured. He has ordered a high-level probe by the Bilaspur divisional commissioner and assured strict action against those found responsible.
The district administration has also ordered a separate magisterial inquiry, while Vedanta has initiated an internal investigation in coordination with its sub-contractor, NGSL (NTPC GE Power Services Ltd), whose personnel were involved in the incident.
Sakti Collector Amrit Vikas Topno said, “The focus now is on supporting the affected families”. “The compensation for those who have died is Rs 35 lakhs and a job for the kin and Rs 15 lakhs for those who are injured. The medical expenses will be covered by the plant management,” he added.
In a statement, Vedanta said 24 workers employed by its sub-contractor were affected, adding that its immediate priority is to provide the best possible medical care and support to the victims and their families.
The 1,200 MW coal-based thermal power project, originally developed by Athena Chhattisgarh Power Ltd, was acquired by Vedanta in 2022. While one 600 MW unit became operational last year, the second unit is still under construction.
Heavy police deployment remains in place at the site and grief-stricken families were seen waiting outside hospitals for updates.
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