A blast at Shivpriya Ispat Udyog in Bokaro killed one worker and critically injured another. The explosion, caused by suspected technical failure, exposed major safety lapses. Authorities ordered a probe, while the victim’s family demanded compensation and strict action against the factory management.
A tragic incident at Shivpriya Ispat Udyog, an ingot manufacturing unit located in Balidih Industrial Area, Bokaro, where a blast in the blast furnace on 29th June, led to the death of one worker and left another in critical condition.
According to initial reports, the explosion took place around 5:40 am, likely due to a technical fault in the furnace. During the incident, molten iron erupted from the furnace, directly hitting two workers Akhil Kumar (22) and Lakhan Tudu (21). Both were rushed to Bokaro General Hospital with nearly 40% burn injuries. Despite doctors’ efforts, Akhil Kumar succumbed to his injuries during treatment. Lakhan Tudu continues to receive medical care and remains in critical condition. The blast narrowly missed injuring 15 other workers who were present at the time.
Family’s Grief and Anger
Akhil’s death has sparked outrage among his family members. His brother, Vineet Kashyap, expressed deep disappointment with both the factory management and local administration. “Yesterday, everyone came just to take pictures, and today no one is even listening to us,” he said. Vineet alleged that the factory was in a completely dilapidated condition, lacking basic safety infrastructure. He also claimed that workers weren’t even provided with proper gate passes or safety kits. The deceased hailed from Dumar Jakri village in Banda, under Petarwar police station limits. The family has demanded strict action against the factory management and adequate compensation for the loss.
DC Bokaro Directed for Immediate Investigation
Following the incident, Bokaro Deputy Commissioner Ajay Nath Jha visited the hospital and directed immediate inquiry into the matter. He instructed the Chas Sub-Divisional Officer to submit a detailed report within three days. Additionally, disciplinary action has been taken against the factory inspector, who was reportedly absent at the time of the accident. Balidih police station in-charge Naveen Kumar Singh confirmed the incident but mentioned that no formal complaint had been registered as of yet.
“The company must support the families of the injured until full recovery, and there must be strict implementation of safety measures in all factories to avoid such tragic events,” the DC’s office stated.
JMM Criticized the Factory’s Safety Standards
Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) city president Mantu Yadav also criticized the factory’s safety standards. He alleged that there were no emergency preparedness measures in place during the incident, and the accident was a result of the factory’s negligence.
This unfortunate event has once again highlighted the urgent need for enforcing industrial safety protocols, especially in older factories operating in Bokaro’s industrial zones. As the probe continues, the focus remains on accountability and justice for the affected workers and their families.
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