Andhra Pharma factory fire: Mishap claims 17 lives, CM Naidu orders stern action

Online Desk

A pall of gloom descended on the families who have lost their loved ones in the tragic fire at Escientia Advanced Sciences Private Limited in Atchutapuram SEZ of Anakapalle district, Andhra Pradesh. 

(Photo | G Satyanarayana, EPS)

The major accident, which claimed 17 lives, has left families in deep sorrow as they gathered at King George Hospital (KGH) in Visakhapatnam to receive the bodies of their loved ones.

(Photo | Express)

Among the grieving families was a young woman named Neeladevi, four months pregnant. She lost her husband, J Chiranjeevi, in the accident. “We were married just six months ago, and I am four months pregnant,” she said with her voice trembling with grief.

(Photo | G Satyanarayana, EPS)

Relatives of M Satish, a senior executive and a native of Pasarlapudi Lanka in East Godavari district, voiced their frustration over the lack of communication and support from the company. 

(Photo | Express)

Trade unions and local leaders raised concerns and outrage over the incident, criticising the lack of accountability and safety measures in the SEZ.

(Photo | G Satyanarayana, EPS)

“The industries find it easier to pay compensation and ex-gratia than to undertake safety audits and protocols. It is even worse in this case because none of the authorities or owners came forward to express condolences,” they averred and emphasised the need for stricter safety measures.

(Photo | G Satyanarayana, EPS)

Asserting that stern action will be taken against companies that fail to adhere to safety protocols, CM N Chandrababu Naidu emphasised that though Andhra Pradesh needs industries and investments, it is equally important for companies to adhere to safety protocols.

Naidu announced an ex-gratia of Rs 1 crore to the families of the deceased, Rs 50 lakh to those severely injured.

(Photo | Express)