Creeping risk: On industrial accidents and neglect of risks
The Hindu·1h ago·Fear
What Happened
Recent boiler explosions in India, including a Sakti blast killing 20 people, reveal systemic safety failures. Boiler failures stem from overpressure, scaling, and water mismanagement—risks building over time. The regulatory framework lacks oversight during unstable operating phases and plant restarts. Current inspections occur annually despite daily condition changes. The government's 'ease of doing business' policy favors self-certification over surprise inspections. Contract workers, often migrants unfamiliar with chemical properties, face greatest hazard exposure.
Key Entities
Sakti boiler explosionChhattisgarhVisakhapatnam gas leak 2020Neyveli blast 2020OSHW Code 2020Boiler Accident Inquiry Rules 2025contract workersIndia industrial safety