Two workers were killed and four others sustained critical injuries after a chemical storage tank exploded at Keerthi Chemicals, an industrial facility in Karnataka’s Mandya district. The incident occurred during the dismantling and relocation of factory machinery, when a chemical leak reportedly triggered the blast, according to initial information from officials.
Sources said the factory had already ceased operations and was in the process of shifting materials to another location. On February 15, workers were clearing a chemical tank as part of the relocation exercise when the explosion took place, leading to severe casualties at the site. The force of the blast caused extensive damage and left several workers seriously injured.
Emergency responders rushed the injured to the Mandya Institute of Medical Sciences, where they are currently undergoing treatment. Authorities confirmed that the two workers who died were natives of Bihar. Police have registered a case and launched an investigation to determine the precise cause of the explosion and whether safety protocols were followed during the dismantling process.
The factory had previously faced scrutiny over safety concerns. In 2022, residents of a nearby village raised alarms after an alleged toxic gas leak from the facility reportedly damaged crops and affected the health of local inhabitants. The incident sparked protests by farmers and prompted intervention from local political representatives and district authorities. Following the controversy, the factory owners decided to shut down operations.
Since the closure, the premises had remained inactive until recent efforts began to relocate equipment and stored materials. Investigators are now examining whether residual chemicals or improper handling during the dismantling process contributed to the accident.
Authorities said further action will depend on the findings of the ongoing inquiry, as officials assess compliance with industrial safety regulations and responsibility for the fatal incident.
