Tragic Explosion in Indian Pharmaceutical Plant Claims 17 Lives

A devastating explosion in a pharmaceutical factory in southern India resulted in 17 fatalities and left 36 injured. The incident occurred while workers were trying to fix a chemical leak. Authorities are investigating the cause, believed to be a solvent leak of methyl tert-butyl ether.

A devastating explosion at a pharmaceutical factory in southern India claimed the lives of at least 17 individuals and injured 36 others, according to the firm's chief financial officer on Thursday.

The blast occurred around noon on Wednesday at Escientia Advanced Sciences in Andhra Pradesh, where employees were attempting to fix a solvent leak when the incident took place, CEO Srinivasa Rao Korada reported.

The explosion, identified as one of the most severe industrial accidents in recent years, has prompted a thorough investigation by company and state authorities to determine its cause, involving a potential vapor leak followed by a chemical reaction.

(With inputs from agencies.)