Maharashtra: 22 injured, 3 workers in critical condition after boiler explodes at steel plant

A boiler explosion at a steel plant in the MIDC area of Jalna, Maharashtra, on Saturday left 22 workers injured, according to police reports. Superintendent of Police Ajay Kumar Bansal stated that three of the injured workers are in critical condition.

The incident occurred around midday at the Gaj Kesari Steel Mill, a facility that has been operational for over a decade and is known for producing steel bars from scrap metal. The explosion, which is believed to have been caused by a malfunction in the boiler system, led to molten iron spilling onto the workers, resulting in severe injuries. This plant has a history of safety violations, and the current explosion has raised serious concerns about the maintenance and safety standards adhered to by the factory.

Three of the critically injured workers were transferred to a private hospital in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar for advanced medical care, while the remaining injured are receiving treatment at local facilities. Authorities have temporarily halted operations at the plant as they conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the explosion. The police are recording statements from the injured workers, and legal proceedings against the factory owner have been initiated.

This incident has intensified scrutiny of workplace safety within the steel industry, with labor unions calling for stricter enforcement of safety regulations. The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) and other regulatory bodies are expected to conduct their own inspections to assess any environmental impact and ensure compliance with safety standards. The company has not yet issued an official statement but is reportedly cooperating with authorities and providing support to the affected workers and their families.

With inputs from PTI.