6 people have died in a massive explosion at a chemical factory in Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation Phase 2, Dombivli on Thursday. At least 48 people have also been injured in the blast. Many other people are feared to be trapped with rescue operations still underway. The injured are being transported to AIMS and Neptune Hospital in Dombivli.
According to Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, 8 people have been removed from the site.
In a statement on X(formerly Twitter), Devendra Fadnavis said, “The incident of boiler explosion at Amudan Chemical Company in Dombivli MIDC is tragic. 8 people were involved in this incident. They have been kicked out. Arrangements have been made to treat the injured and more ambulances have been kept ready. I have discussed with Collector and he is also reaching the spot within 10 minutes. Teams of NDRF, TDRF, fire brigade have been called. I pray to God for the speedy recovery of the injured.”
A few minutes later he added, “Unfortunately 6 lives got lost in Dombivali incident and 48 got injured. My deepest condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. Injured are being treated at AIMS, Neptune & Global hospitals & every kind of assistance is being provided. Praying for their speedy recovery. Various teams & administrative officials are at the spot for rescue operations.”
Head of the Disaster Management Cell of the Thane Civic Body Yasin Tadvi, stated that the explosion occurred in the chemical factory around 1:40 PM. The blast occurred at Amber Organic Company. The fire, caused by the blast, spread to three neighbouring factories, sending thick plumes of smoke and fire visible from a long distance, Yasin Tadvi said. The intensity of the blast was such that it was felt in buildings 3 kilometres away. Ravindra Chavan, Maharashtra’s Minister of Public Works (Excluding Public Undertakings) said that the people responsible will be identified and will face strict legal action.
-Namit Pandey