A devastating boiler explosion at the Vedanta power plant in Singhitarai village under Dabhra police station limits of Sakti district on Tuesday afternoon has claimed eleven lives and left more than 24 workers injured, several of them critically. The incident has triggered widespread panic in the area and raised fresh concerns over industrial safety standards. Superintendent of Police Praful Thakur confirmed the casualties and stated that all necessary assistance is being extended to the injured and their families. According to preliminary information, the explosion occurred at around 2 pm during routine operations at the plant. A suspected rupture in a boiler tube is believed to have caused the powerful blast, which ripped through part of the facility with significant force. Workers stationed near the boiler were the worst affected, with nine fatalities confirmed and many others suffering severe burn injuries. Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of chaos and confusion in the immediate aftermath. Thick smoke engulfed the area as alarm sirens blared, and workers rushed to escape the intense heat and flames. Several injured workers collapsed within the premises before emergency responders arrived. Over two dozen injured workers were immediately rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. At least eight critically injured individuals have been referred to Raigarh for advanced medical care, where their condition remains precarious. Hospital authorities confirmed that medical teams are working round-the-clock to stabilise the victims. Officials have not ruled out the possibility of the death toll increasing. Police, district administration and fire brigade rescue teams reached the site shortly after the incident and launched an extensive rescue and search operation.

 

Authorities suspect that some workers may still be trapped inside the affected unit, prompting continuous combing efforts amid challenging conditions. Meanwhile, a detailed inquiry has been ordered to ascertain the exact cause of the explosion and to investigate any potential lapses in safety protocols. Further details are awaited as rescue operations continue and the investigation progresses. The incident has once again brought the spotlight on industrial safety practices in large-scale power plants. Commerce and Industry Minister Lakhanlal Dewangan stated that he has held discussions with the Collector regarding the mishap and issued necessary directives. He emphasised that the primary focus at present is on rescue operations. He further added that a committee will be constituted to investigate the actual cause of the incident and ensure appropriate action is taken against those found responsible. Spokesperson from Vedanta power plant said, “An unfortunate incident occurred at one of the boiler units at our Singhitarai plant on the afternoon of April 14, 2026, involving personnel from our sub-contractor, NGSL which operates and maintains the unit. Our immediate priority is to ensure the best possible medical assistance and treatment for all those affected. We are extending full support to the injured and are closely coordinating with medical teams and local authorities. We are in the process of ascertaining details, and a thorough investigation has been initiated in coordination with our partner and relevant authorities. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the families of those affected during this difficult time.”