Devastation struck Balodabazar’s industrial belt as a sponge iron plant erupted in a deadly explosion, killing six workers and injuring five others. The sequence of events began with a pipeline rupture in the dust settling chamber, spilling scorching ash that provoked a coal kiln blast. Boiling iron cascaded onto the factory floor, instantly fatal for those in its path.
All fatalities were Bihar natives, including poignant cases like Gaya residents Sundar Bharti and his son Rajdev, who had arrived 15 days earlier via a labor contractor. Sundar’s wife shared the morning call from Rajdev assuring normalcy, unaware it was their last.
Over 50 workers populated the shift when disaster hit at 9:40 AM. Dense smoke shrouded the area, complicating initial rescues. SP Bhavna Gupta reported extracting 11 men, with the injured now at Bilaspur’s burn unit fighting for life. Names of the wounded include Motaaj Ansari (26), Sarafat (32), Sabir (37), Kalpu Bhuiya (51), and Ramu Bhuiya (34).
Rapid response from district heads led to the plant’s lockdown. Compensation flows from the company—20 lakhs per death, 5 lakhs per injury—while labor inspectors scrutinize operations. Collector Soni emphasized direct aid to families via Aadhaar-verified identities.
Echoing national concerns over industrial safety, this incident renews demands for robust checks, especially for migrant-dominated sites. Minister Manjhi’s condolences signal governmental attention amid grieving kin’s pleas for justice.