Bhilai, Chhattisgarh: A tragic industrial accident was reported in Bhilai on Friday, just days after a deadly incident in Balodabazar shook the state. The latest accident occurred at a plant located in the Hathkhoj Heavy Industrial Area, where a worker lost his life while on duty.
The deceased has been identified as Lekhraaj Kaushal. The incident took place between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m. during the first work shift.
How the Accident Happened
According to initial reports, Lekhraaj Kaushal was working inside the plant when he was suddenly trapped under a heavy steel beam. The impact was severe, and he died on the spot. Co-workers rushed to help, but there was no chance to save him.
Police Begin Investigation
Upon receiving information about the accident, the Old Bhilai Police immediately reached the site. The body was taken into custody, and panchnama (inquest) proceedings were initiated. Police officials have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident and to check whether industrial safety protocols were properly followed.
Balodabazar Blast Still Fresh in Memory
The Bhilai accident comes just a day after a massive industrial explosion at an iron plant in Bakulahi village, Balodabazar district. In that incident, superheated ash at temperatures between 850 and 900 degrees Celsius fell on workers following a blast.
The Balodabazar tragedy resulted in the deaths of six workers, while five others suffered serious burn injuries. Most of the victims were migrant workers from Bihar and Jharkhand.
Chief Minister Orders Probe, Compensation Announced
Following the Balodabazar incident, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai ordered a high-level inquiry. The plant management announced compensation of ₹20 lakh each to the families of the deceased, along with an additional ₹25 lakh as relief assistance. Injured workers are being provided ₹5 lakh each for medical treatment.
Safety Concerns Raised
The back-to-back industrial accidents have raised serious concerns about worker safety, monitoring systems, and compliance with safety standards in industrial units across Chhattisgarh. Labor organizations and safety experts are demanding stricter enforcement to prevent such tragedies in the future.