Eight Workers Killed, Several Injured in Molten Steel Accident at Vizag Steel Plant

Visakhapatnam: Eight workers lost their lives and several others were injured in a major industrial accident at the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant on Monday when molten steel spilled inside a production unit during operations.

The accident occurred in the Steel Melting Shop (SMS), where a ladle carrying molten metal reportedly malfunctioned. Preliminary findings indicate that the buckets attached to the ladle gave way, causing a large volume of molten steel to pour onto the shop floor. The intense heat and sudden spill proved fatal for eight workers, while others sustained injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Plant authorities immediately activated emergency protocols and dispatched safety and rescue teams to the affected section. Efforts were launched to secure the area and assist injured workers.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and reviewed the situation with senior officials. He directed departments concerned to ensure coordinated rescue, relief and medical assistance for those affected.

Former Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy mourned the loss of lives and called for the best possible medical care for the injured. He also demanded a detailed investigation into the incident and stressed the importance of enforcing industrial safety norms.

The district unit of CITU sought a comprehensive probe, alleging that poor maintenance, ageing machinery and shortcomings in safety management may have played a role in the accident. The union demanded accountability, enhanced workplace safeguards and compensation of ₹5 crore for each deceased worker's family.