7 labourers killed in explosion at steel plant in Chhattisgarh

January 22, 2026

Raipur/Baloda Bazar: A devastating explosion tore through the DSC coal furnace at Real Ispat & Power Limited, a private sponge iron factory located in Bakulahi village of Baloda Bazar district, Chhattisgarh, on Thursday morning, killing seven labourers and leaving ten others seriously injured. The incident has sent shockwaves through the industrial belt, once again raising serious concerns over workplace safety in heavy industries.

Furnace blast claims seven lives

According to preliminary police reports, the explosion occurred suddenly while a group of workers was engaged near the furnace. The blast scattered burning coal and molten material, exposing labourers to extreme heat and flames. Seven workers suffered fatal burn injuries, while ten others sustained serious injuries and were rushed to a nearby hospital, where their condition remains under medical observation.

Rescue operation and probe launched

Eyewitnesses described a massive plume of black smoke and flames shooting several feet into the air after the blast. Fire tenders were immediately rushed to the spot and managed to bring the fire under control, preventing it from spreading further within the factory premises. Police from the Nipania outpost and Bhatapara rural police station reached the site, secured the area, recovered the bodies, and sent them for post-mortem examination.

An investigation has been initiated to determine the exact cause of the explosion. Authorities are probing whether the incident was triggered by equipment failure, gas accumulation, improper maintenance, or violation of safety protocols. A detailed inquiry involving industrial safety experts is expected.

Political reaction, safety concerns resurface

Former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel expressed grief over the tragedy and urged the government to ensure proper medical care for the injured, provide compensation to the families of the deceased, and conduct a high-level inquiry to fix accountability. However, the Vishnu Deo Sai-led state government has not yet announced any ex-gratia for the victims.

Company officials of Real Ispat & Power Limited have not issued any official statement so far. The tragedy has renewed demands from labour groups and local residents for stricter enforcement of industrial safety norms, especially in steel and coal-handling units across Chhattisgarh, where such accidents have occurred repeatedly in recent years.