Raipur: The number of people killed in a boiler explosion at a power plant in central India has increased to 19, while 17 others have sustained injuries, a police official confirmed on Wednesday.

Blast at Vedanta-operated facility

The incident took place on Tuesday at a power plant run by Vedanta Limited, a subsidiary of London-listed Vedanta Resources, in the Sakti district of Chhattisgarh.

District police chief Praful Thakur stated, “The death toll in the power plant blast has reached 19 whereas 17 are undergoing treatment in various hospitals.”

Cause linked to pipeline burst

According to reports, the explosion is believed to have occurred after a pipeline burst, releasing superheated steam. The Indian Express reported that the steam engulfed workers who were having their lunch at the time.

Officials also indicated that the blast may have been triggered by a leak in a high-pressure steam tube connected to the boiler at the Vedanta power plant.

Vedanta Chairman expresses grief

Anil Agarwal, chairman of Vedanta Resources, said he was “distressed by the extremely tragic accident”.

He added in a statement, “A high-level investigation into this incident has been initiated. We will leave no stone unturned in getting to the bottom of this matter.”

State government orders probe

Officials in Chhattisgarh have launched an investigation into the incident. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai assured that the “strictest possible action” would be taken against those found responsible.

The district administration has also ordered a magisterial inquiry to examine the circumstances surrounding the blast.

Compensation announced for victims

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai expressed condolences over the loss of lives and announced financial assistance for affected families. A compensation of ₹5 lakh has been declared for the families of those who died, while those injured will receive ₹50,000.

He further stated that the state government is ensuring proper and free medical treatment for all those injured in the incident.

With agency inputs