Massive Explosion Rocks Pharmaceutical Plant
On June 30, 2025, a powerful explosion ripped through the spray-dryer unit of Sigachi Industries’ pharmaceutical factory near Sangareddy, Telangana, approximately 50 km from Hyderabad. The blast triggered a massive fire and caused the building to collapse while about 108 workers were on site.
Rising Fatalities Amid Recovery Efforts
Rescue teams retrieved 34 bodies from within the rubble, and a further two critically injured workers later died in hospitals, bringing the confirmed death toll to 36. Another recent update from state police officials suggests the count has now risen to 39, as operations continue amid precarious debris clearing.
Rescue & Identification Underway
Emergency services, including Telangana Fire Services, NDRF and SDRF teams, mobilized rapidly. Given the extent of burns and damage to remains, DNA testing is being used to identify the victims. Approximately 25 bodies remain unidentified, and heavy equipment continues to search for any survivors beneath the wreckage .
Widespread Injuries and Hospitalization
Alongside fatalities, 34 others suffered injuries, with some in critical condition, mainly due to severe burns. Medical teams remain on alert as they care for the wounded .
Government Response & Investigation
The Telangana government has appointed a five-member committee to investigate the cause of the explosion. Health Minister Damodar Raja Narasimha confirmed these steps in an official statement. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have expressed deepest condolences and promised support for victims’ families.
Significantly, Bihar’s Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced compensation of ₹200,000 for families of deceased workers from his state and ₹50,000 for those injured.
Economic and Industry Repercussions
Sigachi’s Telangana facility accounts for over 25% of its annual capacity producing microcrystalline cellulose, a key pharmaceutical and food additive. Its stock plunged about 8% in two trading sessions after the incident. The company has also suspended operations at the site for 90 days due to extensive damage.
Broader Safety Concerns Longstanding
Industrial accidents of this severity are not uncommon in India’s pharmaceutical and chemical sectors. Experts note that rigorous enforcement of safety protocols in high-risk plants is critical to preventing future disasters. The Sangareddy blast has intensified calls for stricter regulation and oversight.
What Lies Ahead
- Probe findings: The five-member panel is expected to uncover technical failures or lapses.
- Family support: Authorities will coordinate DNA identifications, financial aid, and mental health services.
- Safety reforms: Heightened regulatory scrutiny and comprehensive audits are anticipated across chemical and pharma plants statewide and nationwide.
The tragedy at the Sigachi Industries plant has claimed dozens of lives and spotlights a grave vulnerability in industrial safety. As rescue and recovery efforts persist, India awaits answers – and reforms – to honour the victims and prevent future loss.
