New Delhi (Agencies): A devastating explosion at a pharmaceutical factory in Andhra Pradesh’s Anakapalli district has resulted in the deaths of at least 17 people, with 34 others injured, many suffering severe chemical burns. The blast occurred on Wednesday afternoon at the Escientia Advanced Sciences plant, a facility known for manufacturing intermediate chemicals and active pharmaceutical ingredients.
The force of the explosion was so intense that it left severed body parts scattered around the site, according to reports. District police superintendent M. Deepika confirmed that rescue operations have concluded, with all individuals accounted for. “Rescue operations are over,” she stated, adding that the final toll stands at “17 dead and 34 injured”.
Investigators believe the explosion was triggered by a gas leak that eventually reached an electrical panel, causing the catastrophic blast. Local police official M. Buchaiah described the horrific scene, noting that many of the injured suffered severe chemical burns. “It was horrible, heartbreaking,” he told the Indian Express, recounting the agony of those who survived as they were transported to ambulances.
The incident has prompted a high-level inquiry ordered by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, who has promised strict action against the management if negligence is found to be the cause. The plant, located in the Special Economic Zone at Atchutapuram, employs around 380 workers, many of whom were on lunch break at the time of the explosion, which likely prevented a higher casualty count.