Three people were killed, and 17 others were injured in a reactor explosion at a private company in the Atchutapuram Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Andhra Pradesh’s Anakapalli district on Wednesday, August 21. The explosion occurred around lunchtime, which reduced the number of workers present, as confirmed by officials.
Andhra Pradesh’s Labour, Factories, Boilers & Insurance Medical Services Minister, Vasamsetti Subhash, confirmed the fatalities and injuries. “Three people lost their lives, and 17 others are injured in the incident,” he stated, adding that rescue operations were ongoing despite challenging conditions due to the heavy smoke at the scene. Rescue teams were initially unable to enter the premises, and efforts continued to ensure that any remaining individuals trapped inside would be reached as soon as possible.
The injured were swiftly transported to nearby hospitals in Anakapalli and Atchutapuram for treatment. Additional SP (Anakapalle) Deva Prasad confirmed that medical treatment for the injured was underway, and assured that the situation at the site remained peaceful.
Early reports suggested that a reactor blast had caused the explosion. However, Andhra Pradesh Chief Inspector of Factories, Krishnan, later clarified that the incident did not result from a reactor explosion, as initially suspected. Instead, officials are now investigating whether an electricity-related fire might have triggered the disaster.
Rescue efforts have been crucial, with 13 people successfully saved from the affected unit. Those injured were taken to NTR Hospital for treatment, with rescue operations continuing as authorities worked to ensure no one remained trapped.
In response to the tragedy, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life. In an official statement, he assured the families of the deceased that the government would provide full support during this difficult time.
The factory, which operates with 381 employees across two shifts, had fewer staff on site due to the lunchtime break when the blaze erupted. Investigation into the cause of the incident is ongoing, with further updates expected soon.
