Nine killed, 15 injured in boiler blast at Vedanta plant in Chhattisgarh

At least nine workers were killed and 15 others injured in a boiler explosion at a power plant in Sakti district of Chhattisgarh on Tuesday, officials said.

The incident occurred at a unit operated by Vedanta Limited in Singhitarai village, where a boiler tube reportedly burst during the afternoon. Boilers function under extremely high pressure and temperature, and such a failure can trigger a powerful blast, causing extensive damage and severe burn injuries.

According to Sakti Superintendent of Police Prafull Thakur , three workers died on the spot, while others succumbed to injuries at hospitals, taking the toll to nine. Around 15 injured workers are undergoing treatment in neighbouring Raigarh district , many of them with critical burns.

The explosion occurred when several workers, including personnel from subcontractor NTPC GE Power Services Limited , were present near the boiler unit. The impact was immediate and devastating, leaving workers trapped or severely injured.

Rescue operations were launched by police and local authorities, though efforts were initially hampered as the area around the boiler remained extremely hot , forcing evacuation of nearby staff. Teams continue to scan the site amid concerns that more individuals could be trapped.

Beyond the casualties, the incident has had a profound human impact , leaving families grieving the loss of primary earners and survivors dealing with trauma and uncertainty. The accident has also disrupted plant operations and raised concerns about industrial safety in the region.

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai termed the incident “extremely tragic” and assured that the state government stands with the victims’ families. He said a probe has been ordered , and strict action will be taken against those found responsible.

The plant management said its immediate priority is to provide medical assistance, adding that a detailed investigation is underway in coordination with authorities.