VISAKHAPATNAM: Eight workers were killed and several others injured after molten iron spilt on them at the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant on Monday. The incident occurred in the Steel Melting Shop (SMS) unit while production activities were underway.
According to preliminary information, buckets attached to a ladle carrying molten metal collapsed, causing a large quantity of molten steel to spill suddenly onto the shop floor. Eight workers died on the spot, while several others sustained injuries. The injured were shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Following the accident, the plant management initiated emergency response measures and deployed safety teams to the affected area.
Reacting to the incident, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu expressed shock and grief over the loss of lives. The CM reviewed the situation with officials and directed all departments to coordinate relief and rescue efforts. Officials briefed him on the status of the injured workers and ongoing operations.
IT Minister Nara Lokesh conveyed his condolences to the families of the deceased workers and wished a speedy recovery for those injured. He stated that the government machinery is actively overseeing medical care and relief measures.
Former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy also expressed grief over the accident. He conveyed condolences to the bereaved families and urged authorities to provide the best possible treatment to the injured. He called for a comprehensive inquiry into the incident and stressed the need for strict adherence to industrial safety standards. He also directed party leaders and representatives in Visakhapatnam district to assist the affected families.
Meanwhile, the district committee of Centre of Indian Trade Unions demanded a thorough investigation into the accident. In a statement, district leaders alleged that inadequate maintenance, ageing equipment and lapses in safety management may have contributed to the incident.
The organisation sought strict action against those found responsible and demanded compensation of Rs 5 crore for the families of the deceased workers. It also called for stronger safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The accident has once again drawn attention to workplace safety in heavy industries, with employees, unions and public representatives seeking accountability and stronger safeguards for workers.