A catastrophic explosion at a pharmaceutical factory in Telangana has resulted in at least 36 fatalities, with many victims so badly burned that DNA tests are required for identification. The blast, which occurred earlier this week, has left families in mourning and raised serious concerns about industrial safety standards.
The Sigachi Industries plant, situated near Hyderabad, was engulfed in flames after the explosion in its spray dryer unit. Firefighters recovered 34 bodies from the wreckage, while two more workers later died in the hospital. “The structure is completely collapsed,” said Fire Services Chief G.V. Narayana Rao. “We’re still searching for anyone who might be trapped.”
Witnesses reported hearing the explosion from several kilometers away, underscoring the intensity of the blast. Telangana officials have formed an investigative committee to determine the cause, with Health Minister Damodar Raja Narasimha emphasizing the need for DNA testing due to the severity of the victims’ injuries.
Sigachi Industries, which operates multiple production sites across India, announced a temporary shutdown of the affected facility. The company’s shares dropped sharply following the incident.
This disaster follows another recent tragedy—an Air India flight crash in Ahmedabad—leaving the nation grappling with back-to-back calamities. As investigations unfold, authorities face mounting pressure to improve safety regulations.
