Visakhapatnam: Three of the eight workers who died in the accident at the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant (VSP) in Andhra Pradesh have been identified, while DNA tests will be conducted to identify the remaining victims, officials said on Tuesday.
Bodies of Bhanu Kumar, Ramana, and Appala Raju were identified at King George Hospital (KGH). Authorities are making arrangements to transport the mortal remains of these workers to their respective hometowns.
Bodies Shifted to KGH Mortuary, DNA Tests Ordered
All eight bodies of the deceased were brought to the KGH mortuary. Since most of the bodies were charred beyond recognition, hospital superintendent Dr Vani confirmed that DNA testing will be conducted to establish identities. Samples will be collected and sent to a laboratory in Vijayawada.
Industrial Accident Caused by Molten Steel Explosion
Eight workers were killed and six others injured after a ladle carrying molten steel exploded at the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant on Monday. Officials said the accident occurred after a massive leak of molten iron at extremely high temperatures of around 1,500°C, leading to a devastating blast.
Ministers Visit Hospitals, Assure Support to Families
State ministers Nara Lokesh and Anitha visited KGH and consoled the families of the victims. Union Minister of State for Heavy Industries & Steel Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma, MP Bharat, and other leaders also visited the hospital and accident site.
State Labour Minister Vasamshetti Subhash met the injured at KIMS Icon Hospital, while Union Steel Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy described the incident as tragic and assured full support to affected families.
Compensation and Investigation Announced
Kumaraswamy announced ₹25 lakh compensation for each deceased worker and ₹10 lakh for the injured. He also assured employment support for eligible family members and full medical coverage for the injured. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced ₹2 lakh ex-gratia for the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured through the PM National Relief Fund.
An independent investigation has been ordered to determine the exact cause of the accident.