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Investigators suspect a pressure buildup in the spray dryer triggered Monday’s explosion at Sigachi Pharma Industries in Telangana. Fine chemical dust likely intensified the blast.
Sangareddy: An injured being taken for treatment after an explosion at a pharma plant, at Pashamylaram (Photo: PTI)
Monday’s explosion at the Sigachi Pharma Industries in Telangana’s Sangareddy may have been caused because of pressure building up inside the spray dryer, according to a senior rescue official.
The death toll in the incident swelled to 42 on Tuesday, with more of those grievously injured succumbing to their burn injuries at various hospitals.
Explaining the probable cause of the blast, the official further said the pressure seemed to have built up when the workers were operating the spray dryer.
Fine dust chemical particles also accelerated the blast and the subsequent fire, he added.
In a statement, the police said that the chemical factory was involved with the production of Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) – a purified, partially depolymerised cellulose derived from fibrous plant material, often wood pulp.
This comes as investigators are probing the reactor (spray dryer) blast, likely from a chemical reaction or the ignition of chemical dust particles.
Meanwhile, the Telangana BJP also raised concerns over safety lapses, citing missing operational licenses and safety clearances.
Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks.
Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks.
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