SAKTI (Chhattisgarh), Apr 15: A devastating explosion at a power plant operated by Vedanta Ltd in Chhattisgarh’s Sakti district has claimed 16 lives, with authorities confirming that three more injured workers succumbed to their wounds on Wednesday.
The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon at the plant in Singhitarai village, when a steel pipeline carrying high-pressure steam between the boiler and turbine ruptured, triggering a powerful blast. Several workers in the vicinity suffered critical burn injuries.
Initial reports indicate that four workers died instantly, while nine others lost their lives shortly after being rushed to nearby hospitals. The death toll rose further after three more victims died during treatment one in Raigarh and two in Raipur, according to officials.
At least 18 workers sustained injuries in the explosion. Of them, four are currently receiving treatment in Raipur, while the remaining are admitted to hospitals across Raigarh district.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai expressed grief over the tragedy and announced financial assistance of ₹5 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for those injured. The company has separately declared a compensation package of ₹35 lakh for each deceased worker’s family, along with employment support. Injured workers will receive ₹15 lakh each, continued salary during recovery, and counselling services.
The state government has initiated an inquiry into the incident, assigning the Commissioner of the Bilaspur division to investigate the cause and accountability. Additionally, a magisterial probe has been ordered at the district level, with the Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Dabhra tasked to submit a detailed report within 30 days. The investigation will examine whether the blast resulted from technical failure or human negligence, along with a review of safety compliance at the facility.
The plant management has also launched an internal investigation, while authorities have directed hospitals to ensure comprehensive and free medical care for all injured workers.
Meanwhile, the opposition Indian National Congress has strongly criticised the incident, alleging serious lapses in safety standards. Party leaders have demanded the registration of an FIR against the plant management and called for a judicial probe. They have also sought enhanced compensation of ₹1 crore for the families of the deceased and ₹50 lakh for those injured.
The power project, a 1,200 MW coal based thermal facility originally initiated in 2009, faced years of delay before being acquired by Vedanta in 2022. While one 600 MW unit became operational last year, the second unit remains under construction.