At least 17 people have died and 41 others have been injured following an explosion at the Escientia Company’s plant in the Achutapuram Special Economic Zone in Anakapalle, Andhra Pradesh. The explosion occurred around 2:15 PM during lunchtime at the pharmaceutical firm’s facility.
The injured have been taken to NTR Hospital for treatment. Authorities are investigating the incident, with initial suspicions pointing to an electricity-related fire rather than a reactor blast. Krishnan, an official, confirmed that four employees were among those who lost their lives.
The plant, which employs around 380 people working in two shifts, experienced significant damage, with smoke visible from the site and affecting surrounding villages. Six fire engines have been deployed to control the blaze, and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been called in for rescue operations. The District Collector reported that 13 people who were trapped inside the unit have been successfully rescued.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu is set to visit the site tomorrow and is in continuous communication with local officials. The Chief Minister has ordered an inquiry into the incident and emphasized the need to determine accountability.
Escientia, which manufactures intermediate chemicals and active pharmaceutical ingredients, began operations in April 2019. The facility, located on a 40-acre campus managed by the Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation, was established with an investment of ₹200 crore.
