Nine dead, dozens injured in boiler explosion at Vedanta Power Plant in Chhattisgarh; investigation ordered

RAIPUR: At least nine workers were killed and dozens more injured following a massive explosion at a Vedanta Limited power plant in the Sakti district (formerly part of Janjgir-Champa) of Chhattisgarh this afternoon.

The blast occurred at approximately 2:00 PM in Singhitarai village within the jurisdiction of the Dabhra police station. According to Sakti Superintendent of Police Prafull Thakur, the tragedy was caused by a boiler tube burst in a unit operated and maintained by the sub-contractor NTPC GE Power Services Limited (NGSL).

• Fatalities: Nine deaths have been confirmed. Three workers died instantly at the site, while six others succumbed to their injuries during treatment.
• Injuries: Reports on the number of injured vary between 15 and 40+, with many suffering from severe third-degree burns. Most of the victims have been shifted to specialised hospitals in the neighbouring Raigarh district.
• Rescue Status: District administration and police teams are currently on-site. However, rescue operations have been slowed by extreme residual heat near the boiler. Search teams are working to determine if any workers remain trapped under the debris.

In a statement, a Vedanta spokesperson confirmed the incident and emphasised that their "immediate priority is ensuring the best possible medical assistance for those affected."

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai described the incident as "extremely tragic" and has ordered a high-level investigation into the cause of the blast. Authorities have warned that the death toll may rise further as several workers remain in critical condition.