Explosion in chemical factory in Jeedimetla claims two lives; others injured

Hyderabad: An explosion in a reactor at a chemical factory in Jeedimetla claimed the lives of two migrant workers on Monday. Several other employees who were working inside the unit at the time of the incident suffered burns and other health complications. Police identified the deceased as Anwar and Ambareesh, both belonging to Bihar.

According to police, Jeevika Life Sciences Private Limited is a chemical manufacturing firm located at the Industrial Development Area at Jeedimetla of Medchal district. The incident occurred on Monday after the workers resumed their work following a lunch break. Around 3 pm, an explosion took place in one of the chemical reactors in the factory. In less than 15 minutes, a series of explosions followed, leaving more than ten workers trapped inside.

Alerted by workers from neighbouring factories, police and fire force rushed to the spot. Around four fire tenders fought the blaze for an hour before dousing it. Later, the GHMC’s Disaster Response Force personnel began a rescue operation and found two workers charred to death. The officials also found other factory employees, who suffered burns, while some others developed breathing complications due to the thick smoke from the explosion.

Initial inquiries revealed that not operating the reactor as per procedures led to the explosion. It further aggravated the situation, leading to a series of blasts.