Blast Rips Through Indian Pharma Plant—Death Toll Mounts

A devastating explosion at a chemical manufacturing plant operated by Sigachi Industries in India’s Telangana state has claimed the lives of at least 12 workers, with over 26 others injured, local police confirmed on Monday, June 30, 2025.

According to V. Satyanarayana, Inspector General of the Hyderabad region, the explosion occurred in and around the plant’s reactor unit, igniting a major fire. “It appears like a blast in the reactor area caused the fire.

Flames are still active in that part of the facility,” he told Reuters.

The plant, which produces microcrystalline cellulose a compound widely used in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetic products was one of Sigachi’s three operational sites across India.

This particular facility accounts for over 25% of the company’s annual production capacity, which stands at 21,700 metric tons.

Sigachi confirmed the tragic incident in a press release, stating:

“The incident has unfortunately resulted in the loss of human life, and we are still ascertaining the number of injuries.

“Due to damage to equipment and internal structures, the plant will remain shut for 90 days.”

Of the injured, four individuals remain in critical condition, and at least ten people are feared trapped inside the facility as emergency responders work around the clock to contain the fire and conduct rescue operations.

In response to the tragedy, the Indian Prime Minister’s Office announced an ex-gratia compensation of ₹200,000 (approx. $2,332) to the families of each deceased victim and ₹50,000 for those injured.

Meanwhile, Sigachi Industries’ stock took a sharp hit on the Bombay Stock Exchange, closing nearly 12% lower, marking its worst session since March 2024.

Founded as a specialty chemical company, Sigachi manufactures polymer blends, excipients, and lubricants catering to the pharmaceutical and chemical industries.

The Telangana fire has raised serious concerns about industrial safety practices in India’s growing manufacturing sector.

Investigations into the exact cause of the explosion are ongoing, as officials attempt to determine if there was a breach in protocol or equipment failure.

Stay tuned for live updates as rescue efforts continue and more details emerge on this unfolding industrial disaster.

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