SteelPlant – Visakhapatnam Steel Plant Tragedy Claims Ninth Victim After Blast

SteelPlant – The number of fatalities resulting from the devastating accident at the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant increased to nine on Wednesday after an injured worker passed away while receiving medical treatment. The worker, identified as Pydiraju, had been undergoing treatment at Seven Hills Hospital since the incident occurred earlier this week.

Death Toll Rises After Critical Injuries

The accident took place on Monday when a ladle transporting molten steel reportedly exploded inside the plant premises. The blast led to a massive spill of superheated steel, causing severe injuries to several workers who were present near the site. Officials stated that the molten metal involved in the accident was estimated to be at a temperature of nearly 1,500 degrees Celsius.

Initially, eight workers lost their lives in the incident, while six others sustained injuries of varying severity. With the death of Pydiraju, the toll has now risen to nine. Medical teams continue to monitor and treat the remaining injured workers.

Emotional Video Draws Public Attention

A video recorded shortly after the accident gained widespread attention on social media platforms. In the footage, Pydiraju, while being transported to the hospital, expressed concern about his condition and shared a heartfelt message for his family.

He reportedly asked his elder son, Varma, to take responsibility for supporting his mother and ensuring that his younger brother continued his education. The video has deeply moved many viewers and highlighted the human impact of the tragedy.

Injured Workers Continue Receiving Treatment

According to officials, five injured workers remain under medical care at two different hospitals. Some of them are being treated for serious burn injuries and are under close observation by healthcare specialists.

Authorities have assured that all necessary medical support will be provided to the affected workers until their recovery. Hospital teams are continuing treatment with assistance from the plant management.

Compensation and Family Support Measures Announced

Following a visit to the accident location on Tuesday, Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan announced a comprehensive relief package for the affected families.

The government has approved financial assistance of Rs 25 lakh for the families of each deceased worker. In addition, one eligible family member from every affected household will be offered employment opportunities within the steel plant.

Workers who suffered severe injuries and are currently receiving intensive care treatment will receive compensation of Rs 10 lakh each.

Additional Financial Benefits for Employees

The Deputy Chief Minister also stated that permanent employees who lost their lives in the accident would receive approximately Rs 1.72 crore through retirement-related benefits. Families of contract workers will receive financial support amounting to Rs 45.75 lakh.

Furthermore, the steel plant administration has committed to covering the complete medical expenses of all injured workers without any financial burden on their families.

Long-Term Welfare Commitments

As part of the rehabilitation measures, authorities have assured continued educational support for the children of the deceased workers. Families will also be allowed to remain in steel plant residential quarters free of charge until the retirement age of the employees who lost their lives.

Officials added that families currently living in rented accommodations outside the steel township would be eligible to move into plant housing facilities if they choose to do so.

Inquiry Committee to Investigate Accident

To determine the exact cause of the explosion, a three-member investigation panel from Bokaro Steel Plant has been assigned to conduct a detailed inquiry. The committee will examine operational procedures, safety systems, and circumstances surrounding the incident.

Authorities said that future actions and corrective measures will be decided after the committee submits its findings. The investigation is expected to play a key role in strengthening industrial safety practices and preventing similar accidents in the future.