Death toll in Telangana pharma plant blast rises to 41, nine still missing

A catastrophic explosion at Sigachi Industries’ microcrystalline cellulose plant in Pashamylaram, Sangareddy district, occurred on June 30 at about 9 am local time.

Of the 143 employees present, 41 have died—the latest addition was confirmed on July 6 when a 48‑year‑old burn victim succumbed to injuries—while nine workers remain missing.

Approximately 33 others suffered serious injuries.

The blast, believed to have been caused by a malfunction in the spray-dryer reactor, obliterated the multi‑level structure and scattered debris across the site.

Rescue teams—including the State Disaster Response Force, fire brigade, and local police—are continuing operations amid heavy rubble removal. DNA testing has been initiated to identify badly burned victims, with 22 bodies already confirmed and handed over to families.

Compensation packages have been announced: Sigachi Industries and the Telangana state government will each pay ₹10 lakh to the families of the deceased, while Prime Minister Modi has pledged an additional ₹2 lakh per family.

The company has also committed to covering medical expenses for the injured.

A high-level investigation committee, led by the state Chief Secretary and including disaster management, labour, and safety experts, is examining equipment maintenance, safety compliance, and emergency response failings.

In related news, similar industrial disasters in India—such as recent explosions in Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Chhattisgarh—highlight ongoing concerns over safety standards in factories.