The bodies of all eight workers who lost their lives in the devastating accident at the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant have been handed over to their families after postmortem examinations and legal formalities were completed, officials confirmed on Wednesday. The tragedy, one of the deadliest industrial accidents in the plant’s recent history, has left families grieving and renewed concerns over workplace safety in heavy industries.
The accident occurred on Monday evening at Steel Melt Shop-1 (SMS-1) of the plant during casting operations involving molten steel. According to officials, a blast followed by a massive fire erupted when molten metal spilled during operations, killing eight workers and injuring six others. The extreme heat and flames left the victims with severe burn injuries, and several workers were trapped before rescue teams could reach them.
Health authorities at King George Hospital (KGH) in Visakhapatnam conducted postmortem examinations on all eight victims. Seven bodies were released to their families on Tuesday. The eighth body was handed over later after relatives of a worker from Bihar arrived in Visakhapatnam and completed the necessary identification and documentation procedures. The steel plant administration arranged transportation, including an ambulance, to help carry the deceased worker back to his native village in Bihar.
Officials stated that the bodies were badly charred because of direct exposure to molten steel. In some cases, identification proved difficult and required assistance from family members and forensic procedures. Despite the challenges, all victims were eventually identified and returned to their loved ones.
Meanwhile, six injured workers continue to receive treatment at hospitals in Visakhapatnam. Medical authorities said three workers are stable and out of danger, while others remain under close observation. One worker who suffered nearly 100 percent burn injuries is reported to be in critical condition.
The Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL), which operates the Vizag Steel Plant, has launched an internal inquiry into the incident. Technical experts and forensic teams are examining whether the accident was caused by a mechanical failure, procedural lapse, or human error. Police have also registered a case and begun a parallel investigation.
The tragedy has prompted condolences from political leaders and industry representatives across the country. As investigations continue, demands are growing for stricter safety measures and accountability to prevent similar disasters in the future.
