Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday visited the victims of the Atchutapuram SEZ fire accident. During his visit, the Chief Minister also met the injured at Medicover Hospital in Visakhapatnam, where he was briefed on the details of the accident at Escientia Advanced Sciences Private Limited, a pharmaceutical company.
Expressing his deep condolences, CM Chandrababu reassured the victims and their families. “Yesterday’s unfortunate incident at the pharmaceutical facility is deeply condemned. It has left me profoundly affected, and it is indeed a painful situation,” he stated. “This government is taking all necessary precautions. Unfortunately, such an incident has occurred as we are working to rectify the systems that the previous administration neglected.”
The tragic accident claimed the lives of seventeen people and left thirty-six others injured, ten of whom sustained severe injuries. CM Chandrababu assured comprehensive government support. “I have been updated on the condition of the injured by the doctors and have personally spoken to them. I urged them to remain strong and assured them that the government will provide all necessary assistance, no matter how long it takes,” he said.
In the wake of the disaster, the Chief Minister announced substantial financial support for the victims. The families of those who lost their lives will each receive Rs 1 crore in compensation. Those with severe injuries will be given an ex gratia payment of Rs 50 lakh, while those with minor injuries will receive Rs 25 lakh.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, CM Chandrababu described some of the injuries, noting that one individual suffered 57 per cent burns, while others had 24 per cent, 12 per cent, and 10 per cent burns. “One person is in shock but is recovering. We have instructed the doctors to ensure there is no compromise on medical treatment under any circumstances, and we are closely monitoring the situation,” he added.
The Chief Minister reaffirmed his commitment to enforcing all necessary safety measures and expressed hope that such incidents would not recur. “Visakhapatnam is a city close to my heart. Everyone witnessed our efforts during the Hudhud disaster. For such a city, we must ensure that all safety measures are in place. I hope this will be the last such incident. The courage of the victims gives me hope for their swift recovery,” CM Chandrababu concluded.
He also called on the media to support and encourage the victims and their families during these challenging times and assured that any irregularities in the management of the incident would be addressed appropriately.
