Blast During Relocation of Unit Near Karekate Village Raises Fresh Safety Concerns Over Troubled Industrial Plant
Mandya: At least two workers were killed and four others sustained serious injuries after a chemical storage tank exploded at Kirthi Chemicals Industries near Karekate village in Mandya district on Sunday, police officials confirmed.
The explosion reportedly occurred while materials were being shifted from the existing unit to a new location. Authorities said the accident took place during the removal of a chemical storage tank, triggering a powerful blast that claimed two lives on the spot.
The injured workers were rushed to the Mandya Institute of Medical Sciences for treatment. Their condition is reported to be serious.
Blast During Relocation Process
According to police sources, the factory had been in the process of relocating operations from Karekate following sustained opposition from local residents and farmers. The relocation was reportedly underway when the explosion occurred during evacuation activities.
A case has been registered, and a detailed investigation is currently underway to determine the exact cause of the explosion and whether safety protocols were followed during the shifting process.
Factory Faced Protests After 2022 Gas Leak
The industrial unit had earlier come under scrutiny in 2022 after a toxic gas leak allegedly damaged crops in surrounding areas and led to the death of two dogs. Residents also reported adverse health effects following the incident, intensifying concerns over environmental and worker safety standards.
Following strong protests from farmers and local communities, factory operations were halted after intervention by local MLAs and the district administration. The owners had subsequently decided to relocate the plant.
Sunday’s explosion has once again raised serious questions about industrial safety compliance and oversight in the region. Officials are expected to submit a detailed report once the preliminary inquiry is completed.
