Vedanta boiler blast toll rises to 25 after worker dies
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The death toll from the boiler explosion at a Vedanta Limited thermal power plant in Chhattisgarh has risen to 25 after another injured worker succumbed during treatment.
The blast occurred on April 14 at the plant in Singhtarai and left several workers severely injured. The latest victim, Biswajit Sahu from West Bengal, died on April 23.
Officials said 35 workers were affected in the incident. Of them, only two have been discharged so far, while three remain in critical condition and five are under observation at various hospitals.
A preliminary report by the chief boiler inspector identified the cause of the explosion as excessive fuel accumulation inside the boiler furnace. This led to a rapid rise in pressure, which dislodged a lower pipe, caused structural failure, and triggered the blast. The findings were independently confirmed by the Forensic Science Laboratory.
Sources said the malfunction resulted in a sudden release of heat and pressure, trapping workers in flames before they could escape. Survivors described confusion at the site, with efforts underway to rescue those caught in the blaze.
The report has been submitted to the district administration and Dabhra police.
Police have registered a case under sections related to causing death by negligence and negligent conduct with machinery. The FIR names Anil Agarwal, plant head Devendra Patel, and other officials and employees, citing initial evidence of negligence.
Sakti Superintendent of Police Prafull Thakur said eight to ten individuals have been named in the FIR, adding that more names could be included as the investigation progresses.