Sigachi Industries Explosion: Investigation Faces Major Setbacks

Hyderabad, Jul 2 (PTI) Investigators looking into the catastrophic explosion at the Sigachi Industries pharma plant near Hyderabad are encountering significant hurdles, given that three pivotal officials have perished in the incident. These key individuals could have provided essential information for the probe.

An official from the factories department noted that the demise of the factory manager, deputy general manager (production), and an operator is likely to hinder the information-gathering process crucial for the investigation. However, they assured that the probe will advance without delay.

The investigation, expected to take about a fortnight depending on information availability, will scrutinize potential safety protocol lapses, operational failures, or any unexpected issues that might have caused the accident. It is too early to detail findings from the inquiry, as rescue operations only concluded on Tuesday.

The cause of the explosion, which resulted in 38 fatalities, remains under investigation. Preliminary findings suggest that excessive pressure build-up in the unit's dryer might be responsible. The official commented, "The basic reason is excess pressure built up in the dryer, and the factors contributing to this pressure increase need examination. These could include temperatures exceeding the desired levels, among others."

Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has requested a comprehensive report on the incident, covering details of past similar occurrences and preventive measures implemented.

Meanwhile, Sigachi Industries Ltd confirmed the loss of 40 team members in the explosion and fire at its Pashamylaram plant. The company announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 1 crore to the families of the deceased. Sigachi Industries Limited is a pharmaceutical company focused on advancements in Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), Intermediates, Excipients, vitamin-mineral blends, and Operations and Management (O&M) services, as stated on their website.

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