NHRC Takes Cognizance of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant Blast; Seeks Report from AP Government

New Delhi – Andhra Pradesh: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of reports regarding a fatal explosion at the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant in Andhra Pradesh that claimed the lives of eight workers and left at least six others with severe burn injuries. Expressing concern over the incident and allegations of safety lapses, the Commission has sought a detailed report from the Andhra Pradesh government on the circumstances surrounding the tragedy, the condition of the injured workers, and compensation extended to the victims’ families.

Deadly explosion in steel melting shop

According to media reports, the accident occurred on June 8, 2026, in the Steel Melting Shop of the Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL)-run Visakhapatnam Steel Plant.

The explosion reportedly took place when a ladle carrying nearly 150 tonnes of molten steel at an estimated temperature of 1,600 degrees Celsius suddenly burst. The molten metal spilled across the shop floor, causing catastrophic burn injuries to workers present in the area.

Eight workers killed, several others injured

The incident resulted in the deaths of eight workers, while at least six others sustained severe burn injuries. The injured workers were rushed to hospitals for treatment, where they continue to receive medical care.

The accident has raised serious concerns regarding workplace safety in heavy industrial units, particularly in operations involving high-temperature materials and hazardous conditions.

NHRC issues notice to Andhra Pradesh Chief Secretary

Taking note of the media reports, the NHRC observed that the allegations, if found true, raise significant issues relating to human rights and worker safety.

The Commission has issued a notice to the Andhra Pradesh Chief Secretary, directing the state government to submit a detailed report within two weeks. The report is expected to include the status of the injured workers, details of the investigation, and information regarding ex gratia assistance or compensation provided to the families of the deceased and the injured workers.

Safety protocol allegations under scrutiny

The matter has gained further attention following allegations by workers’ unions that mandatory safety protocols were ignored by the plant management.

While the veracity of these claims is yet to be established, the allegations have intensified calls for a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to the explosion and whether adequate preventive measures were in place.

Demand for accountability and safer workplaces

The tragedy has once again highlighted the importance of stringent industrial safety standards and effective monitoring mechanisms in high-risk workplaces.

Labour representatives and safety advocates have stressed the need for accountability, regular safety audits, strict compliance with operational protocols, and enhanced protection measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Investigation underway

Authorities are expected to examine the technical causes of the explosion, assess compliance with safety regulations, and determine whether negligence contributed to the accident.

The findings of the investigation and the report sought by the NHRC are likely to play a crucial role in determining responsibility and shaping future safety measures at industrial establishments.