A tragic industrial accident at the Butibori MIDC in Nagpur claimed the lives of six workers and left six others injured on Friday morning. The incident involved the catastrophic collapse of a massive overhead water tank at the solar module manufacturing facility of the Avaada Group.
Investigation Intensifies Into Structural Failure
The Nagpur Rural Police, which initially registered a case of accidental death, has now significantly intensified its probe into the matter. Superintendent of Police (Rural) Harssh A Poddar has taken a key step by writing to the Directorate of Industrial Safety and Health (DISH). The letter requests expedited technical reports focusing on the tank's structural integrity, its design specifications, and details about its supplier.
In a swift safety response, DISH authorities have placed four similar overhead water tanks at the same facility under immediate scrutiny. Operations involving these tanks have been halted until comprehensive safety audits are completed. A source familiar with the plant's operations explained that these tanks are designed to store water at room temperature. Their primary functions are to support coolant systems, provide water for firefighting, and meet general construction needs at the manufacturing unit.
"We have sought the final analysis reports from the DISH authorities at the earliest," stated SP Harssh Poddar, emphasizing the urgency of the investigation.
The Moment of Catastrophe and Rescue Efforts
The accident occurred during what should have been a routine procedure. The massive metal tank ruptured while a leak test was being conducted, causing it to collapse completely onto the ground. The force of the collapse was immense, as 10 lakh litres of water stored in the 36-foot-high structure came crashing down.
The deluge of water and debris buried workers under twisted metal and slush. Rescue operations, involving coordinated efforts by police and fire brigade teams, continued for hours as they sifted through the mangled wreckage to find survivors and victims.
The deceased and injured were primarily migrant labourers from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. They were engaged in construction and maintenance work in the vicinity of the tank when it suddenly burst. Initial reports confirmed three deaths at the site, with three more workers succumbing to their injuries later in the hospital.
Political Response and Aftermath
The tragedy drew immediate reactions from political leaders. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed profound grief, terming the incident "extremely tragic." He assured that the government would provide full assistance to the affected families.
From the victims' home state, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh for the kin of each deceased worker and conveyed his heartfelt condolences. The incident has cast a stark spotlight on industrial safety protocols and the structural auditing of critical infrastructure within manufacturing zones, prompting a rigorous official inquiry.
