Visakhapatnam, June 8:
A major industrial accident at the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant (Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited) on Monday reportedly left at least eight workers dead and several others critically injured, triggering a large-scale rescue and emergency response operation.
The incident occurred in the Steel Melting Shop-2 (SMS-2) department of the plant. According to preliminary information, ladles carrying molten steel at extremely high temperatures were being transported through a conveyor and crane system when a sudden mechanical failure allegedly caused the heavy ladles to collapse.
The collapse resulted in molten steel spilling onto workers present in the operational area. Due to the extreme temperatures, several workers were trapped in the accident zone. Reports indicate that eight workers lost their lives instantly, while others sustained severe burn injuries.
Following the incident, fire and rescue teams, along with plant security personnel, rushed to the site and launched emergency operations. The injured workers were evacuated and shifted to nearby hospitals for urgent medical treatment.
Officials involved in the rescue effort expressed concern that the casualty count could rise, as some of the injured remain in critical condition. Efforts are continuing to secure the affected area and assess the full extent of the damage.
Plant management has ordered an inquiry into the incident to determine the exact cause of the accident and identify any technical or operational lapses that may have contributed to the collapse of the ladle transport system.
CM Chandrababu Naidu Orders High-Level Review
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed deep shock and grief over the tragic loss of lives. Soon after receiving information about the incident, he reportedly conducted an emergency review with senior officials.
The Chief Minister directed authorities to carry out rescue and relief operations on a war footing and ensure seamless coordination among all departments involved in the response.
He also instructed officials to provide the best possible medical treatment to the injured workers and directed local ministers and district administration officials to visit the accident site and personally monitor relief efforts.
Reassuring support to the affected families, the Chief Minister stated that the state government would extend all necessary assistance, including financial and logistical support, to those impacted by the tragedy.
A pall of gloom has descended over the steel plant and its surrounding residential townships as rescue operations continue amid fears that the death toll may increase.
