Telangana factory blast: Rescue teams unsure of survivors under debris; DNA tests under way to identify charred bodies

NEW DELHI: After the deadly explosion at Pharma factory in Telangana’s Sangareddy district on Monday, rescue officials said they remain unsure about how many individuals are still trapped under the debris of the collapsed factory building.

Blast during drying process; fire followed

“Today, at around 9.48 am, there was a blast in the drying unit at Sigachi Pharma Company. The explosion led to a fire. A total of 12 people have died and 35 are injured in the incident,” said Y Nagi Reddy, Director General of the Telangana State Disaster Response and Fire Services, as quoted by ANI. He said the blast likely occurred during the air handling or drying of microcrystalline cellulose, a compound used in pharmaceuticals. “We are currently unsure of the number of people under the debris,” Reddy added. The explosion, which took place at Pashamylaram industrial area, about 50 km from Hyderabad, caused significant structural damage. Inspector General of Police V Satyanarayana said the impact was felt across a 5 km radius.

Rescue operations are being carried out by multiple teams, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).

Authorities said at least half a dozen bodies were burnt beyond recognition, and DNA tests are underway to establish their identities. “A few bodies are burnt beyond recognition, and DNA profiling is underway to establish their identities,” said a Revenue Department official.

Telangana Labour Minister G Vivek Venkatswamy and Health Minister C Damodar Raja Narasimha visited the accident site and hospitals treating the injured. Venkatswamy told reporters that out of the 34 injured, 12 are in critical condition and on ventilator support. The factory incharge was among those killed. “Nearly 63 people reported for work this morning. Initially, it was thought to be a reactor blast, but later we found it was in the drying unit,” he said. “There is no one from the factory to explain what exactly happened,” the minister added.

PM Modi, CM Revanth Reddy express grief

Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered condolences and announced compensation.

“An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh would be given to the next of kin of each deceased, and Rs 50,000 to the injured,” the PMO posted on X.Chief minister A Revanth Reddy expressed anguish and directed officials to prioritise rescue and provide advanced medical aid. He also instructed a thorough investigation into the cause.

In a statement, Sigachi Pharma said, “Sigachi deeply mourns the loss of lives and extends heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased.

We are extending all possible support to the affected.” According to the company’s website, Sigachi Industries is engaged in the production of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), excipients, mineral blends, and other pharma-related services.

Cause not yet confirmed; forensic probe underway

The precise cause of the blast is yet to be determined. “Industrial experts suspect pressure build-up during drying or handling of materials caused the explosion, which destroyed both the unit and parts of the industrial building,” Reddy told PTI. Officials said more clarity is expected after a technical and forensic evaluation. In the meantime, the government has promised interim financial aid for the victims and their families.(With inputs from agencies)