On August 21, 2024, the tranquil afternoon at the Escientia Advanced Sciences pharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Atchutapuram Special Economic Zone (SEZ), located in Anakapalli district, Andhra Pradesh, was shattered by a catastrophic explosion. The incident occurred around 2:15 p.m. IST, reportedly triggered by an electrical fire. The aftermath of this devastating explosion has left at least 18 individuals dead and over 50 injured, with many suffering from severe chemical burns. The tragedy has not only sparked widespread sorrow but also ignited urgent discussions about safety protocols within the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector in India.
The Escientia Advanced Sciences facility, which was established with a substantial investment of ₹200 crore, spans a 40-acre campus under the Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation. This factory specializes in manufacturing active pharmaceutical ingredients and intermediary products, employing around 400 workers who operate in two shifts. On the fateful day of the explosion, many workers had just returned from their lunch break, allowing for a reduced presence that potentially saved numerous lives. However, the toll was still significant, as at least 18 lives were lost amidst the chaos, and 41 workers were reported injured, with several suffering from life-threatening burns.
Witnesses reported a terrifying scene as thick plumes of smoke engulfed the facility, hindering rescue operations. The loud explosion sent shockwaves through the local community, causing panic among nearby residents. Anakapalli’s Superintendent of Police, M. Deepika, noted that several workers were trapped under debris from the collapsed structure, further complicating the rescue efforts. Fire brigades were quickly dispatched to the site, with eight large fire engines arriving to battle the flames, soon joined by additional units. Their efforts were hampered by the intense heat and smoke, which engulfed the entire area surrounding the factory.
State Labor Minister Vasamsetty Subhash confirmed the tragic death toll, stating that ten of the deceased had been identified, including key personnel such as the assistant general manager, V. Sanyasi Naidu, and several production operators and chemists. With rescue operations still underway, local authorities faced the daunting task of identifying the remaining victims amidst the wreckage. Anakapalli District Collector Vijaya Krishnan emphasized the urgency of the situation, indicating that more victims could still be trapped within the ruins of the factory.
The explosion not only raises immediate concerns about the safety measures in place at the Escientia facility but also highlights a troubling pattern of industrial accidents in the region. Just a month prior, a similar explosion at Vasanth Chemicals resulted in the death of a worker and injuries to two others. Moreover, in June 2023, another explosion at Sahiti Pharma claimed the lives of six individuals. These incidents have brought to light the pressing need for a thorough review of safety regulations and enforcement in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed profound shock at the loss of life and directed authorities to prioritize rescue efforts. He assured the families of the deceased that the government would provide support and assistance in this challenging time. The recurring nature of such industrial disasters raises alarming questions about the accountability of companies and the efficacy of regulatory oversight in ensuring worker safety.
As the community mourns the loss of life and grapples with the aftermath of this disaster, the need for stringent safety protocols and comprehensive emergency response plans in industrial settings cannot be overstated. The Atchutapuram explosion serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the imperative to safeguard the well-being of workers in high-risk environments. In the wake of this tragedy, a collective effort must be made to enhance safety standards, protect lives, and prevent such catastrophic incidents from recurring in the future.
Source:
www.hindustantimes.com
