17 killed, many injured in pharma company blast, PM Modi announces financial assistance
The death toll from the reactor explosion at a pharma company in the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Atchutapuram, Andhra Pradesh, has risen to 17 as of Thursday. Anakapalli District Collector Vijaya Krishnan confirmed the fatalities. The blast occurred when a 500-kilolitre capacitor reactor exploded at the Escientia Company, which was operating with around 200 workers present at the time.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has ordered a high-level inquiry into the incident and is expected to visit the families of the victims and the injured later today.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the tragedy, offering condolences to the bereaved families. The Prime Minister announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹2 lakh to each family of the deceased, and ₹50,000 to the injured. This announcement was made through the PMO’s official account on X.
The explosion, which happened around 2:15 pm during lunchtime, resulted in 41 injuries. The injured have been taken to NTR Hospital for treatment. Initial reports suggested that the incident might have been caused by an electricity-related fire rather than a reactor blast, though investigations are ongoing.
Visuals from the site show smoke thickly enveloping the surrounding villages. Chief Minister Naidu is maintaining close communication with district officials and has ordered a thorough investigation to determine accountability. Six fire engines and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed to manage the situation and assist with rescue operations.