VISAKHAPATNAM: Following a devastating incident at the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant (VSP) that resulted in the loss of at least eight lives, Andhra Pradesh Home Minister Vangalapudi Anita and Visakhapatnam MP M. Sribharat have called for a comprehensive investigation into the tragedy. The accident occurred on Monday evening in the Steel Melting Shop (SMS) unit of the plant when a ladle carrying molten steel malfunctioned, leading to a massive spill of the superheated metal onto workers below. Initial reports suggest that the incident happened around 4:30 PM during production activities, trapping workers in the vicinity.
Rescue and Relief Operations Underway
Upon receiving news of the disaster, senior officials, including the Home Minister and the local MP, visited the accident site to review the ongoing rescue and relief efforts. They were briefed by plant officials on the circumstances surrounding the mishap. The injured workers were immediately shifted to nearby hospitals for medical treatment, with several reported to be in critical condition. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed his shock and grief, directing all government departments to coordinate efforts to expedite rescue work and ensure the best possible medical care for those injured. The Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H.D. Kumaraswamy, has also stated that he is closely monitoring the situation and has spoken with concerned officials.
Calls for Investigation and Safety Measures
Trade unions and political leaders have voiced concerns over workplace safety at the VSP, citing previous accidents involving molten metal. They allege that inadequate maintenance, aging equipment, and lapses in safety management may have contributed to the current tragedy. The Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) has demanded a thorough investigation and strict action against those found responsible, while also calling for enhanced safety measures to prevent future incidents. A three-member external expert committee, headed by the Director-in-charge of Bokaro Steel Plant, has been constituted to conduct a high-level inquiry into the explosion.
Previous Incidents at Visakhapatnam Steel Plant
This incident is not the first of its kind at the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant. In December 2020, four workers sustained severe burn injuries when molten steel spilled at Steel Melting Shop-2. Another incident in February 2023 saw nine workers and officials injured while clearing a stuck slag pot. More recently, in May 2025, a large quantity of molten steel spilled during transit, triggering a fire, although no casualties were reported in that instance. Industrial safety experts note that accidents involving molten metal handling, which occurs at temperatures exceeding 1,500°C, are inherently hazardous and can be caused by various factors including ladle failures, equipment malfunctions, and inadequate maintenance. The plant management is expected to provide a detailed report after the completion of the ongoing investigation.
The Chenab Times News Desk