The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has initiated action after a media report highlighted the death of eight workers and injuries to six others in an explosion at the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant in Andhra Pradesh. The NHRC has demanded a comprehensive report from the Andhra Pradesh Chief Secretary within two weeks, emphasizing the potential human rights violation if the news report is accurate.
The incident, as per reports, occurred in the steel melting shop of the plant during a ladle explosion carrying 150 tonnes of liquid steel at a scorching 1,600 degrees Celsius. This led to severe burn injuries among workers present, with allegations from the workers’ union pointing towards management negligence of safety protocols.
Tragically, the death toll has now reached nine, with one injured worker succumbing to injuries during treatment. The injured workers are receiving medical care, with one in critical condition. The Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh has announced compensation for the affected families and assured full coverage of medical expenses for the injured workers.
YSRCP President Jagan Mohan Reddy has demanded additional compensation for the affected families and urged the government to provide further support beyond the announced benefits. He emphasized the need for humanitarian assistance and job opportunities for the families of the deceased workers.
