Five killed in Sri City pharma factory blast

Tirupati: At least five workers were killed and 10 others injured after a powerful boiler explosion at the TIL Healthcare pharmaceutical factory near Sri City in Tirupati district on Saturday.

The blast, at around 8:00 am, triggered panic inside the industrial unit and prompted a major rescue operation involving the police, ambulance personnel, and local residents. Police said several workers, including those finishing or on night duty, were present when the explosion occurred.

Preliminary findings indicate that a water boiler at the factory exploded, causing severe damage and leading to a portion of the building collapsing. Rescue teams shifted the injured persons to nearby hospitals as operations continued at the site. Three workers — Chinna Masthan (45), of Cherivi village in Satyavedu mandal; Ramesh(45), of Madarapakkam in neighbouring Tamil Nadu; and Gowrab Ray(35) of West Bengal died at the factory premises. Two more workers Mohan(20) of Tamil Nadu and another one person later succumbed to injuries while undergoing treatment. Authorities said the exact cause of the boiler blast would be known only after a detailed investigation.

The impact of the explosion was felt across the surrounding area, drawing residents to the spot. Locals joined rescue personnel in helping move injured workers to ambulances, while Sri City Police secured the premises and coordinated relief measures. Search continued for persons possibly trapped in the debris of the collapsed portion of the building.

Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu expressed his deep shock over the tragedy and sought details from officials on the casualties, treatment being provided to the injured, and the status of rescue operations. He conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families and directed the district administration to extend all necessary assistance without delay. The Chief Minister instructed health officials and hospital authorities to ensure the best available medical treatment for those injured, including advanced care, if required.

He asked the police and district administration to complete rescue and relief work on a war-footing and to take every precaution while searching the accident site. Naidu ordered a detailed inquiry into the explosion and said strict action should follow if negligence or violations of industrial safety norms were found. He stressed the need to review safety systems in factories and industrial establishments to prevent similar incidents. Tirupati MP Dr Maddila Gurumurthy expressed his grief over the deaths and called for speedy, quality treatment for the injured.

YSRCP president YS Jagan Mohan Reddy also conveyed his condolences to the victims’ families, seeking comprehensive relief measures and full government support for those affected.On receiving information, District Collector Dr S Venkateswar, along with SP L Subba Rayudu and other officials, reached the spot and supervised relief operations.

Speaking to media, Collector Dr S Venkateswar said the families of each deceased worker will receive Rs 50 lakh as compensation within two days. Sri City management will bear the entire educational expenses of the victims’ children, including higher education. Eligible family members will be provided immediate employment in Sri City or nearby industries.

The Collector said a preliminary case has been registered against those responsible.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Vani Mallela

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Vani Mallela is a Staff Reporter at The Hans India and an accomplished journalist and content creator from the erstwhile Chittoor district. With over 16 years of professional experience, she has built a strong reputation for covering crime, politics, and entertainment, delivering stories that are accurate, engaging, and impactful. She holds a postgraduate degree from Sri Venkateswara University and received professional journalism training at Rachana Journalism College, Hyderabad, with a focus on science and mass communication. Her expertise includes field reporting, investigative journalism, fact-checking, and source development, enabling her to produce balanced and credible reports under tight deadlines. Vani is recognised for her sharp news sense, concise writing style, and ability to uncover compelling human-interest stories that reflect the voices and concerns of local communities. Her extensive knowledge of the Tirupati region, coupled with her diverse family background and broad cultural exposure, brings depth, empathy, and context to her reporting. A dedicated journalist committed to ethical and responsible reporting, Vani continually enhances her knowledge by keeping abreast of current affairs through regular newspaper reading and extensive research. Her professionalism, accuracy, and passion for storytelling have made her a respected voice in regional journalism.

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