10 Killed In Chhattisgarh Power Plant Blast; PM Modi Announces ₹2 Lakh Ex-Gratia For Victims

A tragic explosion at a power plant in Chhattisgarh's Sakti district has claimed multiple lives and left several others injured, prompting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to announce financial assistance for the victims and their families.

The incident has sparked concerns over industrial safety, as rescue operations continue at the site.

PM Modi Announces Financial Aid

Expressing grief over the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.

In a message shared on social media, he described the incident as tragic and wished a speedy recovery for the injured. He also announced ex-gratia compensation of ₹2 lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the families of each deceased person.

Additionally, ₹50,000 will be given to those injured in the explosion.

Deadly Explosion at Power Plant

According to police officials, at least 10 people have died and more than 40 others were injured in the blast that took place on Tuesday afternoon.

The explosion occurred at a boiler unit of the Vedanta Limited power plant located in Singhitarai village in Sakti district. Initial reports suggest that a fault in a boiler tube may have caused the blast.

The sudden explosion created panic at the site, with several workers caught in the impact.

Rescue Operations Underway

Soon after the incident, local police and administrative teams rushed to the spot and began rescue operations.

Authorities fear that some workers may still be trapped under debris. Emergency teams are working continuously to locate and rescue anyone still missing.

The injured have been shifted to nearby hospitals, where they are receiving treatment.

Company Responds to the Incident

A spokesperson from the power plant confirmed that the accident took place at one of the boiler units operated by a subcontractor.

The company stated that its immediate priority is to provide medical assistance to the affected workers. It also said that it is working closely with medical teams and local authorities to manage the situation.

A detailed investigation has been initiated to determine the exact cause of the explosion.

CM Calls Incident 'Heart-Wrenching'

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai described the incident as extremely distressing.
He expressed condolences to the families of the victims and assured that the administration is actively involved in rescue and relief efforts. He also directed officials to ensure proper treatment for the injured.

The Chief Minister further promised a thorough and impartial investigation, stating that strict action will be taken against anyone found responsible.

Background of the Power Plant

The power plant where the explosion occurred has an important recent history. Vedanta Limited acquired the project through insolvency proceedings under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code.

Originally known as Athena Chhattisgarh Power Limited, the plant was later merged with Vedanta Limited following an order by the National Company Law Tribunal in 2023.
The facility, now called the Vedanta Chhattisgarh Thermal Power Plant, has a total capacity of 1200 MW, with two units of 600 MW each.

Concerns Over Industrial Safety

The incident has once again raised serious questions about safety standards in industrial units. With a high number of casualties and injuries, there is growing concern about whether proper safety protocols were followed.

Authorities are expected to closely examine these aspects as part of the ongoing investigation.

Situation Remains Critical

Rescue efforts are still ongoing, and officials are monitoring the condition of the injured.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on saving lives, supporting affected families, and ensuring accountability for the incident.