NHRC takes suo motu cognizance of death of 14 workers in Chhattisgarh
The 1,200 MW coal-based thermal power project, originally developed by Athena Chhattisgarh Power Ltd, was acquired by Vedanta in 2022. While one 600 MW unit became operational last year, the second unit is still under construction.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), has taken suo motu cognizance of a media report that at least 14 workers died and 20 others were injured due to a boiler tube explosion at a thermal power plant in the Sakti district of Chhattisgarh.
Reportedly, the explosion released extremely hot steam engulfing the workers. The incident occurred around 2.30 pm on Tuesday at the company’s thermal power facility in Singhitarai, when a tube carrying high-pressure steam from the boiler to the turbine exploded with immense force. The blast caused severe burn injuries to workers present at the site, many of whom were engaged in maintenance and painting work.
Four workers died on the spot, while others succumbed to their injuries during treatment at various hospitals. In total, around 30 workers were injured in the incident. According to reports, 14 people have died, and 20 are still under treatment across various hospitals. Five individuals have been sent for advanced treatment. Initial assessments suggest no more people are trapped, though thorough checks have been conducted.
Sakti Superintendent of Police, Praful Thakur, said after an hours-long rescue operation that preliminary findings suggest that the explosion was triggered by a leak in the high-pressure steam tube connected to the boiler unit. The force of the blast caused extensive damage and triggered panic among workers.
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai termed the incident “extremely tragic” and announced an ex gratia of Rs 5 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured. He has ordered a high-level probe by the Bilaspur divisional commissioner and assured strict action against those found responsible.
The Commission has observed that the incident raises serious issues of violation of the human rights of the victims. Therefore, it has issued notices to the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police, calling for a detailed report on the matter within two weeks. It is expected to include the status of the disbursement of compensation to the affected workers as well as the health of those injured.
