Assam Factory Blast: 4 Workers die in Cachar cylinder explosion

Four workers were killed in a suspected LPG cylinder explosion at an iron casting unit in Assam's Cachar district on Sunday, with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announcing Rs 5 lakh compensation for each of the victims' families.

Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Kaushik Rai visited the spot and reviewed the situation. He said multiple investigations would be conducted to ascertain the exact cause of the blast and determine whether there were any safety lapses.

The explosion occurred in the afternoon at a shared compound of Kade Global Infrastructure LLP and IRID Casting Works LLP in Pangram under Udharbond police station limits, a senior police officer said.

The injured workers were taken to Silchar Medical College and Hospital, where four were declared dead.

The deceased were identified as Kiran Munda, Appu Baraik, Shyamal Gour and Sagar Nath, the Chief Minister's Office said.

A preliminary investigation suggested that the explosion was caused by an LPG cylinder being used for casting work.

Sarma expressed condolences over the deaths and said the government was closely monitoring the situation. Four people, including the factory manager, have been detained for questioning.

"Industrial negligence will not be tolerated and we will take firm action against any lapses," he said.

Sarma asked MLA Rajdeep Goala to meet the families and extend assistance. The government has sanctioned Rs 5 lakh each to the next of kin under the Chief Minister's Relief Fund.

The civil administration, police and Labour Commissioner will conduct separate investigations into the incident, Rai said.