Hyderabad: A devastating explosion at Sigachi Industries’ pharmaceutical facility in Pashamylaram has left at least 40 dead and over 33 injured, casting a harsh spotlight on the glaring safety lapses plaguing Telangana’s chemical and pharmaceutical sectors. The blast, which obliterated a multi-story structure and left victims so badly burned that DNA testing was required for identification, is now being seen as a grim symbol of systemic negligence.
A Pattern of NeglectOver the past five years, Telangana has recorded more than 700 industrial accidents—500 of them in the pharma and chemical industries alone. While the Sigachi tragedy has drawn national attention, experts warn that many similar incidents are quietly buried, pointing to a culture of underreporting and institutional apathy. “Don’t Blame the Workers”: Trade union activists are higly critical of the tendency of factory managements to scapegoat workers.
The real culprits are poor hiring practices, lack of safety training, and the absence of basic protective gear,” said slamming regulatory bodies for failing to monitor hazardous units. “We have laws, but no enforcement. Authorities often shield factory owners instead of holding them accountable,” he said, calling for independent probes and stringent penalties.
What Went Wrong: The explosion, which occurred on June 30 in the plant’s spray dryer unit used for microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), is believed to have been caused by a pressure surge, likely worsened by chemical dust accumulation. Preliminary findings and family testimonies suggest the company ignored repeated warnings about outdated machinery, prioritizing profits over safety.
Government Response: The Telangana government has launched a five-member inquiry panel and filed a case of culpable homicide against the company’s management. Sigachi Industries has suspended operations at the site for 90 days and announced Rs 1 crore in compensation for each deceased worker’s family, along with medical aid for the injured. Calls for Reform: Experts are urging the revival of a long-stalled joint inspection committee involving the Factories Department and Pollution Control Board. Environmentalists are also demanding the relocation of hazardous units away from residential zones to prevent future catastrophes.
As investigations unfold, the Sigachi disaster stands as a chilling reminder of the human cost of regulatory failure. Without urgent reforms, Telangana’s industrial boom may continue to be marred by preventable tragedies.
