A tragic explosion occurred at a chemical factory near Karekatte village in Karnataka on February 15, resulting in the deaths of two workers and injuring four others. The incident took place while the factory was in the process of relocating its chemical storage tanks. Eyewitness reports indicate that the blast happened unexpectedly, leading to immediate panic and chaos in the area.
According to police sources, the two deceased workers died on the spot, while the injured were rushed to the Mandya Institute of Medical Sciences for urgent medical care. This incident highlights ongoing safety concerns regarding the factory, which has previously faced scrutiny for its safety practices, particularly after a toxic gas leak in 2022 that caused damage to local crops and resulted in the death of animals.
- Two fatalities confirmed — the explosion claimed the lives of two workers immediately.
- Four injured workers hospitalized — they are currently receiving treatment for their injuries.
- Factory's relocation efforts — the incident occurred during the relocation of chemical materials.
Local residents have long been concerned about the factory's safety record. Following the gas leak incident, there was significant backlash from the community, leading to interventions by the local MLA and district administration, which prompted the factory to halt its operations. The owners had then decided to relocate the factory to avoid further conflicts with the community and to adhere to safety regulations.
This latest explosion raises serious questions about the factory's safety protocols and the effectiveness of the measures taken to protect both workers and residents. Investigations are currently underway to determine the cause of the explosion and to assess the factory's compliance with safety standards. Authorities are expected to take a closer look at the factory's operational history and the steps it has taken since the previous incidents.
