Tragedy struck at Chennai’s Ennore Special Economic Zone thermal power project on Tuesday when a huge steel arch collapsed during a routine installation, claiming the lives of nine workers from Assam. One more worker survived with injuries.
The accident happened in the Stage 4 section of the plant, where a team of 10 contractual laborers was installing a steel cover over a coal handling area to protect stockpiles. The structure suddenly buckled, sending everyone tumbling down despite safety belts.
Tamil Nadu Additional Chief Secretary J. Radhakrishnan, who also serves as the state health spokesperson, explained the horror: “They had safety measures like belts, but the collapse happened so fast. Nine arrived dead at Stanley Medical College Hospital. The survivor has abrasions and lacerations, but he’s stable.”
Hospital staff identified the victims as Munnakemprai, Vidayum Pravotsha, Sumon Karikap, Deepak Raijiung, Sarbojit Thausen, Pranto Sorong, Paban Sorong, Phaibit Phonglo, and Bimaraj Thausen. All worked through a subcontractor for Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL).
Radhakrishnan visited the hospital and stressed the government’s quick response. “Safety protocols were in place, but this was a sudden disaster. We’re coordinating with BHEL’s safety team and will provide all needed support,” he said. Officials are notifying the families in Assam and arranging to send the bodies home.
The Ennore SEZ thermal power project is a massive 2×660 MW facility built in phases. Stages 1 through 3 already run smoothly, but Stage 4—where the steel arch collapse occurred—sits at 70% completion amid intense construction. Around 3,200 workers, many migrant laborers from other states, bustle on site each day.
Police and safety inspectors now probe what caused the industrial accident and if the steel structure met building standards. Security ramps up at Stanley Hospital as families and labor union reps head there.
This Chennai workplace tragedy spotlights growing concerns over safety for migrant workers powering India’s big industrial projects.
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