On Wednesday afternoon, a tragic incident occurred at Inamdar Sugar Factory in Marakumbi village, located in Karnataka’s Belagavi district, when a boiler at the facility exploded, killing at least two people and critically injuring eight others, according to local police reports. The explosion reportedly took place around 2 pm, sending shockwaves through the factory and causing widespread panic among the workers present at the time.
Superintendent of Police for Belagavi Rural, K. Ramarajan, confirmed that the injured, who sustained serious and critical injuries due to the blast, were immediately transported to nearby hospitals for urgent medical treatment. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as smoke and debris filled the area, prompting an immediate evacuation of the factory premises. Emergency response teams, along with local authorities, rushed to the site to provide assistance, manage the situation, and ensure the safety of the remaining staff.
The incident has raised serious concerns about industrial safety standards, particularly in factories handling high-pressure equipment like boilers. The factory management has temporarily suspended all operations as a precautionary measure while authorities conduct a thorough investigation. The cause of the explosion has not yet been officially determined, and an inquiry is expected to be launched to ascertain the reasons behind the mishap, including whether there were any lapses in maintenance, safety protocols, or operational procedures.
Officials have urged caution and reassured the public that measures are being taken to prevent further accidents, highlighting the need for strict adherence to safety norms in industrial settings. Meanwhile, the affected families are receiving support, and the local administration has vowed to provide all necessary assistance during this difficult time. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the risks associated with industrial work and the importance of rigorous safety oversight.
