Baloda Bazar (Chhattisgarh): At least seven workers were killed in a tragic industrial accident in Chhattisgarh’s Baloda Bazar district on Thursday after a sudden explosion occurred at the Real Steel plant located in Bakulahi village.
According to reports, the blast took place in the plant’s DSC coal furnace while workers were carrying out cleaning operations in the surrounding area. The explosion caused hot coal to erupt from the furnace, severely burning the workers present at the site. The impact was so intense that thick black smoke rose several metres into the air, blackening the walls of the industrial structure. Ash and burnt coal were scattered across the premises.
Several other workers sustained injuries in the incident and were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. Upon receiving information about the explosion and subsequent fire, police and fire brigade teams reached the spot and brought the situation under control. The bodies of the deceased workers have been sent for post-mortem examination.
Nipania police station and Bhatapara rural police are jointly investigating the incident. The accident site has been cordoned off, and eyewitnesses are being questioned. Preliminary findings suggest possible negligence in following safety norms, though the exact cause of the explosion is yet to be determined.
Meanwhile, the silence of the plant management has raised serious concerns. No official statement has been issued so far, and authorities have not confirmed the exact death toll or explained the circumstances that led to the blast. The lack of clarity has triggered questions about workplace safety standards and accountability at the plant.
Further investigation is underway, and more details are awaited.
