Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday described the reactor explosion at a pharma unit in Anakapalli as “unfortunate” and announced a compensation of ₹1 crore for the families of the deceased workers. Additionally, ₹50 lakh will be provided to those seriously injured and ₹25 lakh to those with minor injuries.
During his visit to meet the injured victims, Naidu emphasized the importance of safety in industrial operations, stating, “It is a very unfortunate incident. We have formed a committee to investigate all lapses, and a report will be submitted. While promoting investment is crucial, ensuring safety is equally important.”
The explosion, which occurred on Wednesday at a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Atchutapuram, claimed 17 lives and left several others with burn injuries. In response, the Chief Minister has ordered a high-level inquiry into the incident.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences and announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹2 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured. President Droupadi Murmu and Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar also conveyed their sympathies to the bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.
The tragedy occurred when a 500-kilolitre capacitor reactor exploded at the pharma company, where approximately 200 workers were present at the time.
