13 killed, 58 hurt in Maha factory blast
Amit Shah speaks to CM
Multiple explosions at a chemical factory in Maharashtra’s Dhule killed at least 13 persons and left around 58 others severely injured on Saturday. The authorities stated that the premises were buzzing with over 100 workers, when the catastrophe hit Rumit Chemsynth Pvt Ltd at around 10 am. The police said that the toll could increase further.
Preliminary investigation revealed that leakage from one of the barrels filled with nitrogen gas triggered a fire, which eventually resulted in a series of explosions, due to the presence of several gas cylinders at the company premise.
Meanwhile, the state administration has announced `5 lakh compensation to the kin of the deceased.
The loud explosions prompted local villagers to rush to the site at Waghadi village in Shirpur Taluka. The administration, assisted by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), swung into action after police and collector office was informed about the incident.
“The explosions triggered a massive fire, which had to be controlled first. The fire fighting machinery from the entire district was pressed into service. The rescue operation continued till late in the night,” said an officer from Dhule district police.
The villagers and first responders rushed the injured to Dhule Civil Hospital and Shirpur Cottage Hospital. The police said that those who succumbed to the injuries have been identified and their families have been contacted.
The police said that steps have been taken to keep the situation under control and
hence, Riot Control Police has been deployed in the village. The company, where the incident took place, manufactured the chemical for medical purposes. The authorities inspected the boilers and found it to be in good condition.
The chief minister Devendra Fadnavis’ office expressed grief over the incident. “Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis expressed grief over loss of lives in explosion at chemical factory near Shirpur in Dhule district. Guardian minister, collector, SP on spot, SDRF team reached too and now the fire is under control (sic),” tweeted official handle of the chief minister’s office.
Home minister Amit Shah said that the state is taking all the required steps to provide complete assistance to those affected. “Anguished to learn about the loss of lives due to explosion at a chemical factory in Dhule, Maharashtra. Have spoken to CM @Dev_Fadnavis, state govt is doing everything possible to assist the people in need. My condolences with the bereaved families. May injured recover soon,” he tweeted.