35 dead in Sangareddy chemical blast; Search ops continue; CM Revanth Reddy to visit site
Hyderabad: The death toll in the chemical factory blast at the Pashamylaram industrial area in Sangareddy district has risen to 35, as more bodies were recovered from the debris of the collapsed structure. According to officials, several victims were charred beyond recognition, and DNA fingerprinting has been initiated to establish their identities.
The explosion occurred at the Sigachi chemical factory in the Pashamylaram Industrial Area on June 30, following a reported reactor blast that triggered a massive fire. Witnesses said the force of the explosion was so strong that some workers were thrown nearly 100 metres from the site. The fire quickly engulfed the building, trapping several workers inside. Firefighting teams arrived promptly.
Rescue operations are continuing at the site, with teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Disaster Response Force (DRF) working around the clock to clear debris and search for survivors. Thirty-four workers injured in the explosion are being treated at various hospitals in the vicinity.
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy is scheduled to visit the blast site later today. He will also meet the injured at the hospitals. The Chief Minister has directed officials to ensure that all necessary assistance is extended to the families of the deceased and the injured.
As per the latest figures, a total of 143 individuals were involved in the incident. Of them, 57 have been traced and found safe, while 34 are injured and undergoing treatment. So far, six deaths have been confirmed and identified. An additional 29 bodies have been recovered but are yet to be identified. Seventeen persons remain unaccounted for. Officials noted that these numbers may change as rescue and recovery operations continue.
Post-mortem examinations of the deceased are being conducted at the Patancheru Area Hospital. On the orders of Health Minister Damodar Rajanarsimha, a team of senior forensic doctors has been deployed to assist with the autopsies. The Forensic Science Laboratory is involved in the DNA testing process. Ten ambulances have been specially arranged to transport the bodies from the site to the hospital and mortuary facilities.
Meanwhile, Chief Secretary conducted a high-level review of the ongoing relief and rescue operations at the site. The review meeting was held in accordance with directions from the Chief Minister and included senior officials from the Police, Fire Services, Intelligence, Health, Industries, Labour, Disaster Management, Pollution Control Board, Revenue Department, and the Sangareddy district administration.
The District Collector briefed the officials on the situation on the ground, including the status of rescue operations, identification of missing persons, treatment of the injured, and support extended to victims' families. The Chief Secretary directed the Police and Fire Services to continue operations with urgency and ensure that the site remains safe from further hazards. The Health Department was instructed to provide the best available treatment and monitor the condition of the injured through dedicated teams.
The Labour and Factories Department has been tasked with assessing the social security entitlements, including Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) and Employees’ State Insurance (ESI), for the deceased and the severely injured. The Industries Department is coordinating with the management of the factory to ensure regulatory compliance and provide logistical assistance where needed. The Revenue Department and district administration are facilitating ex-gratia payments and other support to the bereaved families.
