Eight killed in accident at Vizag Steel Plant; CM orders relief measures

The incident has cast a pall of gloom over the steel plant, one of Andhra Pradesh’s most significant industrial establishments. Officials expressed concern that the death toll could rise further

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

A major industrial accident at the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant claimed the lives of at least eight workers and left several others injured on Monday, triggering large-scale rescue operations and prompting an immediate response from the Andhra Pradesh government. Initial reports indicate that molten steel spilled onto workers at one of the plant’s steel-making facilities, causing extensive casualties.

According to preliminary information, the tragedy occurred in the Steel Melting Shop (SMS)-2 section of the plant when ladles carrying molten metal reportedly collapsed during transportation. The intensely heated liquid metal spilled onto workers operating in the vicinity, trapping several employees and causing severe burn injuries. At least eight workers died on the spot, while a number of others sustained serious injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals for emergency treatment. 

Emergency response teams, including fire and rescue personnel, plant officials and medical teams, rushed to the accident site soon after the incident. Rescue operations were launched immediately to evacuate workers from the affected area and contain the situation.

Authorities are continuing efforts to assess the full extent of the damage and determine whether additional workers were impacted by the accident. The incident has cast a pall of gloom over the steel plant, one of Andhra Pradesh’s most significant industrial establishments. Officials expressed concern that the death toll could rise further depending on the condition of those undergoing treatment for severe burn injuries.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed deep shock over the tragedy and conducted an emergency review with senior officials soon after receiving information about the accident. He directed authorities to undertake rescue and relief measures on a war footing and ensure that all injured workers receive the best possible medical care without delay. The Chief Minister instructed officials from all concerned departments to work in close coordination to assist rescue operations and provide immediate support to affected workers and their families.

He also directed local ministers and district authorities to personally monitor the situation and oversee relief efforts at the site. Chandrababu assured that the state government would extend all possible assistance to the families of the deceased and injured workers. He stressed that there should be no delay in providing compensation, medical treatment and other necessary support to the victims.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the accident. A detailed inquiry is expected to examine whether there were any technical failures, safety lapses or operational issues that led to the collapse of the molten metal transportation system.