A significant detonation has resulted in a combustion incident at a pharmaceutical plant in Andhra Pradesh, a southern Indian province. According to police sources, the event has resulted in the deaths of at least 18 workers. The 5-year-old company is a producer of intermediate chemicals and active pharmaceutical ingredients. Media outlets have indicated that officials suspect the fire was caused by an electrical malfunction at the plant, prompting state authorities to initiate an investigation.
The incident occurred at Escientia Company, situated in the Anakapalle district, adjacent to Vishakhapatnam, a port city with a high concentration of industrial activity and a history of chemical leaks. Fires are a common occurrence in India, where there is a prevalence of builders and residents who contravene building regulations and safety standards. In some cases, fire-fighting equipment is not even installed, as reported by local media.
