A terrifying explosion rocked a chemical factory in the Mettur area near Salem on Tuesday, leaving two guest workers with severe burn injuries in what local authorities are calling a serious industrial accident.
The incident occurred at a chemical manufacturing unit where the two workers, identified as Suresh Kumar and Ramesh Patel, were performing their regular duties. According to preliminary investigations, a sudden chemical reaction triggered the blast, engulfing the area in flames and toxic fumes.
Emergency response teams rushed to the scene immediately after receiving distress calls from factory management. Firefighters battled the blaze for over an hour before bringing it under control, preventing what could have been a catastrophic chain reaction.
Both injured workers were quickly transported to a nearby government hospital where medical professionals are treating them for second and third-degree burns covering significant portions of their bodies. Hospital authorities described their condition as "serious but stable."
Local police have launched a comprehensive investigation into the incident. "We are examining all aspects of the explosion, including potential safety violations and improper handling of hazardous materials," stated a senior police official from the Salem district.
This incident has reignited concerns about industrial safety standards in the region, particularly regarding chemical manufacturing units that handle volatile substances. Factory owners and management are facing tough questions about their safety protocols and emergency preparedness.
The Tamil Nadu Department of Factories has been notified and will conduct its own safety audit of the facility. Labor union representatives have demanded immediate action and compensation for the injured workers, who had migrated from other states for employment.
