According to PTI report, Six people died in a fire accident in a chemical factory located at Akkireddygudem in Eluru district in Andhra Pradesh and 12 others sustained burns.
This incident took place in Porus Laboratories Private Limited at Akkireddygudem in the recently formed district.
Rahul Dev Sharma, Superintendent of Police, Eluru, informed that the injured are being treated in a Government Hospital in Vijayawada. He also said that it is suspected the fire broke out late on Wednesday in the plant’s reactor that makes polymer power.
A doctor in the hospital said four of the injured are in serious condition. Meanwhile, Chief Minister YS Jaganmohan Reddy expressed shock over the incident and announced Rs 25 lakh ex-gratia to the kin of the deceased.
He has also announced Rs 5 lakh each to the critically injured and Rs 2 lakh to those who sustained minor injuries. Andhra Pradesh Governor Biswabhusan Harichandan also expressed anguish over the fire accident and extended condolences to the bereaved families.
The fire was brought under control in two hours. The Superintendent of Police and the District Collector have been directed to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident. Meanwhile, some of the survivors alleged that the negligence of the company led to the tragedy.
District Collector Prasanna Venkatesh said an inquiry will be conducted and action will be taken against the company if it was found to be negligent. He said the factory will be closed till the inquiry is completed.
Locals have also staged a protest in front of the plant on Thursday, demanding that the plant be shifted from the village.
They alleged that the plant is causing pollution in the area. The protesters are also demanding justice for the victims.
