Telangana Plant Blast: Tragic Explosion at Sigachi Industries
On June 30, 2025, a devastating blast rocked the Sigachi Industries pharmaceutical plant in Pashamylaram, Sangareddy district, Telangana. The explosion—believed to have originated from a pressure buildup in a spray dryer during a chemical drying process—triggered a massive fire that reduced the multi-storey complex to rubble.
At the time of the incident, approximately 143 employees were inside the facility. Rescue teams worked through treacherous debris to recover victims and survivors.
Fatalities & Ongoing Search
By early July 1, the confirmed death toll had reached 35, with several workers seriously injured and dozens still reported missing. Authorities continue combing through the wreckage to recover bodies and locate the missing.
According to an official from Sangareddy District Police, 31 bodies were extracted from the debris and 3 others succumbed while undergoing treatment. Many victims hailed from Odisha, West Bengal, Bihar, and surrounding states. DNA profiling has been initiated to identify charred remains.
Casualties & Critical Injuries (Telangana Plant Blast)
Hospitals in Miyapur and Patancheru reported receiving dozens of casualties, many suffering from severe burns or lung damage due to toxic inhalation.
Reports indicate workers with 40–80% burns on ventilators, among others in critical condition and requiring advanced burn care.
Government Response: Revanth Reddy Steps In
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy immediately visited the blast site with top cabinet members to personally oversee response efforts
He announced a comprehensive compensation package:
- ₹1 crore to each bereaved family
- ₹10 lakh for seriously injured individuals
- ₹5 lakh for those with minor to moderate injuries
Additionally, an immediate relief of ₹1 lakh for families burdened by funeral costs and ₹50,000 for the injured was sanctioned
Accountability & Safety Measures (Telangana Plant Blast)
CM Reddy criticized the absence of Sigachi’s top executives at the disaster site, labeling it neglectful and urging their prompt accountability
He also instructed the Director of Factories to review all chemical-processing plants in the state to prevent future tragedies
In addition, a five-member high-level probe committee, led by Telangana’s Chief Secretary, was formed to investigate the incident thoroughly and recommend safety reforms
Technical Cause & Industry Implications
Preliminary investigations indicate that the blast was triggered by pressure buildup in the spray drying unit, with combustible chemical dust exacerbating the flame
Sigachi Industries, a leading producer of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) for the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic sectors, has halted operations at the Sangareddy plant for at least 90 days while damage assessment and safety checks are underway.
What Happens Next?
- Rescue & identification efforts continue to locate missing workers and identify victims via DNA.
- The probe committee is expected to submit its findings and propose safety strategy improvements.
- State-wide inspections of chemical facilities will intensify under government monitoring.
- Sigachi Industries faces scrutiny over safety protocols, executive accountability, and repair of damaged infrastructure.
