A sudden chemical leak at a Mandya factory has left two workers dead, three fighting for life, and a missing contractor deepening the mystery. The unit had earlier faced farmer protests over crop damage raising urgent questions about safety lapses and what really went wrong inside.
At least two people were killed after a chemical leak at a factory in Mandya district
Mandya: At least two people were killed and three others were left critically ill after a chemical leak at a factory in Mandya district of Karnataka on Sunday, officials said. The incident occurred at the Keerthi Chemical Industry near Karekatté village in Basaralu, triggering panic among workers and nearby residents.
According to workers, the deceased have been identified as Akash and Kallu, both natives of Bihar. Three others sustained serious injuries and were rushed for emergency medical treatment.
Karnataka: Seven killed in multi-vehicle chain collision in Bengaluru
Eyewitnesses said around six to eight labourers were present inside the plant when a chemical tank suddenly exploded during cutting and fitting work. The factory had reportedly resumed limited activity only about a month ago after remaining shut for a period.
Local sources revealed that the unit had previously been closed following protests by farmers who alleged that an earlier chemical leak had damaged their crops. At the time of the latest incident, some machinery inside the facility was being dismantled, which is suspected to have triggered the explosion and subsequent leak.
Residents in nearby areas expressed concern over safety standards and demanded strict action against those responsible.
Police have registered a case at the Basaralu Police Station and launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the leak. Officials said forensic and safety teams are expected to examine the site to assess compliance with industrial safety norms.
Karnataka: A cruiser collides with a canter in Gadag; 3 killed, 15 others injured
Meanwhile, the contractor associated with the work at the plant has reportedly gone missing, and search efforts are underway to trace him. Authorities said further action will depend on the findings of the ongoing probe.
The incident has once again raised serious questions about industrial safety and monitoring of hazardous chemical units in the Mandya region. Locals and labour groups are calling for stricter inspections and accountability to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Officials assured that necessary steps would be taken after the investigation, even as the condition of the injured workers remains critical.
