Key Facts
The death toll from the June 8 blast at the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant (RINL) rose to 10 on Saturday after contract worker Gokivada Suribabu succumbed to 95% burn injuries. The RINL management has suspended 22 officials across multiple departments for negligence.
Details of the Incident
The blast occurred on June 8 when molten steel leaked in one of the units, killing eight workers on the spot and injuring six others seriously. K Pydi Raju, another injured worker, died on June 10. Suribabu, a contract worker from Seethanagaram, Peddagantyada, died at Seven Hills Hospital on June 13. His body was shifted to King George Hospital for post-mortem.
Action Taken by Management
After a preliminary inquiry, RINL suspended 22 officials on June 13. The suspensions include:
- 10 personnel from SMS-1 and SMS-2 (steel melting shops)
- 5 officials from material management department
- 7 employees from quality assurance and testing department (QATD)
Officers suspended range from deputy general manager to senior manager. Further action is under consideration. Earlier, seven officials, including three general managers, were transferred.
Quality Control Failures
Inspections revealed use of substandard ferro-alloys and other materials. An RINL official stated, "Inquiries revealed usage of inferior materials." Trade union leaders have alleged systemic failures and demanded accountability at higher levels.
Trade Union Reactions
INTUC leader D Adinarayana claimed that key officials responsible for procurement of substandard material were not suspended. Another union leader noted that high consumption of ferro-alloys had been observed two years ago, indicating long-standing issues. He argued that operational practices, not just material quality, cause such incidents.
What Readers Should Know
The blast highlights serious safety lapses in one of India's major steel plants. The suspension of 22 officials is a significant step, but unions demand a thorough investigation into systemic failures. The incident underscores the need for stringent quality control and adherence to safety protocols.
FAQ
How many people died in the Vizag Steel Plant blast?
The death toll has risen to 10, including two workers who succumbed to injuries after the initial blast.
How many officials have been suspended?
RINL has suspended 22 officials from departments including steel melting shops, material management, and quality assurance.
What caused the blast?
Preliminary inquiries point to use of substandard ferro-alloys and other materials, along with operational lapses.
Source: www.hindustantimes.com