Kolkata: At least four workers were injured after an explosion at a sponge iron factory in the Jamuria area of Asansol Municipal Corporation in West Burdwan district, West Bengal, late Friday night.
The incident took place at a private factory located in the Sheikhpur area of Ikra Industrial Estate. Following the blast, police and fire brigade teams rushed to the spot and carried out rescue operations. The injured workers were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Blast suspected to have occurred in furnace
According to initial information, the explosion is believed to have occurred in the factory’s furnace, though the exact reason behind the blast has not yet been confirmed.
Police have started an investigation to determine whether the accident was caused by a technical fault, equipment failure, or any safety lapse. The factory management is also conducting a separate inquiry into the incident.
The loud explosion created panic among residents of nearby Sheikhpur village. Locals claimed that the impact was so strong that cracks appeared in several houses in the area.
Safety concerns raised after accident
After the explosion, police cordoned off the factory premises to control the situation. The incident also led to tension among workers and local residents, who raised concerns over safety measures at industrial units operating in the area.
Residents alleged that regular maintenance and safety checks were not being carried out properly and demanded strict action against those responsible if negligence is found.
Local leaders who reached the spot also questioned the safety arrangements at the factory and demanded support and compensation for the injured workers and their families.
The authorities are now investigating the exact cause of the explosion and will take further action based on the findings.