In a devastating industrial accident, the death toll in the Sigachi Pharma Industries explosion in Pashamylaram, Telangana, has surged to 34. Rescue efforts continued through the night as emergency teams pulled out bodies trapped under the collapsed structure. Officials say 31 people were found dead at the site, and three others died later in the hospital.
The blast rocked the Sigachi plant on Monday, destroying large sections of the facility and leaving dozens injured. The intensity of the explosion was so severe that debris was scattered over a wide area. The tragedy has shaken the local community and raised serious concerns about industrial safety.
Paritosh Pankaj, the District Superintendent of Police, confirmed that the rescue operation is nearing its final stage. “It’s a heart-wrenching scene. Most of the workers had no chance to escape,” he said. He also added that the Sigachi factory had not reported any prior warning signs before the explosion, making the disaster even more shocking.
The cause of the explosion at Sigachi Pharma is still being investigated. Early suspicions point to a possible chemical leak or equipment malfunction. Forensic teams are currently collecting samples and examining the site. The Telangana government has ordered a full safety audit of all nearby pharma and chemical plants.
Meanwhile, in a separate weather-related development, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert in Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi district. Heavy rainfall has caused the Beas River to flood, threatening low-lying areas and prompting evacuations.
Viral videos show the Beas River swelling rapidly, with water levels dangerously close to breaching embankments. The IMD warned that rainfall will continue over the next two days, increasing the risk of flash floods and landslides. Authorities have closed schools and advised residents to stay indoors.
Emergency teams in Mandi are on high alert, setting up relief camps and moving families from flood-prone areas. Tourists visiting Himachal have also been urged to postpone travel plans until the weather stabilizes.
Back in Telangana, the Sigachi tragedy has prompted national outrage. Workers’ unions are demanding strict action against those responsible, and families of the victims are calling for compensation and justice. Many are questioning whether Sigachi and similar companies follow proper safety norms or merely cut corners for profit.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences and assured support to the victims’ families. The Home Ministry has asked for a detailed report on the Sigachi incident, and Telangana officials are expected to release a preliminary investigation summary soon.
These twin emergencies — one man-made, one natural — show how vulnerable lives can be when safety, whether in factories or the environment, is not prioritized. The Sigachi explosion is a grim reminder that safety audits must not be taken lightly, especially in industries dealing with chemicals. And in Himachal, the growing climate challenges demand better infrastructure and early warning systems.
The days ahead will test both the survivors of the Sigachi explosion and the residents facing floods in Mandi. India now looks to its authorities not just for relief, but for responsibility, reform, and results.
