KOCHI: A migrant worker was killed and two others, -- all from Odisha -- were injured following an explosion at an animal fat processing plant in the Edayar Industrial area, Kochi, late on Saturday night. The incident occurred at the Formal Trade Links LLP facility around 11:40 pm due to a mini boiler blast, officials said.
The deceased has been identified as Bikram Pradhan,36, a native of Siriki village in the Gudayagiri block of Kandhamal district, Odisha. Two others from the same village, Krishna (20) and Guru (35) sustained burn injuries and are currently undergoing treatment at the Ernakulam Government Medical College. All were engaged in work at the plant during the incident, according to the officers.
According to the police, four persons were admitted to the hospital following the explosion, but Bikram Pradhan was declared dead upon arrival. Another individual, Pranab Pradan (20), who was also injured, was treated at the emergency department and later discharged.
"Guru sustained 35 per cent burns, while Krishna suffered 25 per cent burns. Both are currently undergoing treatment. Meanwhile, Pranab Pradan, 20, who also hails from the same village, was admitted to the emergency department, underwent tests, and has been discharged," said Dr Ganesh Mohan, Superintendent, Ernakulam Government Medical College.
Police and Fire and Rescue personnel responded swiftly to the scene, rescuing the injured and dousing the fire. Their quick action prevented the blaze from spreading to a larger area, minimizing further damage.
Authorities suspect the explosion was caused by a gas leak in the mini boiler, though investigations are still underway. A case has been registered under Section 194 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), as per the FIR lodged by the Binanipuram police.
The Edayar industrial estate is home to several industrial units including chemical factories, polymer companies, packaging companies, pipe production companies and several others.