At least five workers of Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Ltd (Vizag Steel Plant) were killed in Visakhapatnam on Monday after molten iron spilt on them, according to latest reports. As reported by PTI, a large bucket carrying molten metal became dislodged and crashed down, triggering a massive fire at the plant's Steel Melting Shop-1 and burning workers alive. The accident occurred during routine operations at the steel facility, with officials indicating that the toll could rise as rescue operations continue. An official press release from Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu's office confirmed that multiple workers were killed in the industrial accident without specifying the exact number of casualties.
According to police reports, the molten iron spilt while being moved in a bucket by a crane during the industrial accident. The molten iron was extremely hot at about 1,600 degrees Celsius, making it particularly dangerous for workers in close proximity. As per PTI, the accident involved a large quantity of molten iron falling on the workers, resulting in the higher casualty count compared to initial reports. Chief Minister Naidu expressed deep anguish over the deaths and directed that all departments should work in coordination to extend help to the affected families.
Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav confirmed that bodies of four of the deceased had reached the steel plant's general hospital by 6:30 pm on Monday, according to PTI. An official told PTI that "we are undertaking rescue operations. So far, five bodies have been recovered." Meanwhile, as per PTI, "a total of six casualties reported to the steel plant's general hospital." The rescue operations continue with the possibility of additional casualties being identified, as reported by PTI.
