6 dead, over 10 injured in blast in Chhattisgarh sponge iron factory; video shows huge cloud of black smoke

Scary visuals from the site show a huge cloud of black smoke emerging from the blast site.

Updated on: Jan 22, 2026, 13:54:24 IST

By Ritesh Mishra

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At least six workers were killed and five others injured in a blast at a steel plant in Chhattisgarh’s Balodabazar–Bhatapara district on Thursday, officials said.

The explosion took place at the plant's dust settling chamber. (Screengrab/X/@PTI_News)

State health minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal said he has spoken to the district collector and directed that the injured be provided the best possible medical care. He instructed the district administration to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and ensure swift and strict action against those responsible.

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In a statement, Jaiswal assured the families of those killed that the state government stands with them and that all necessary assistance will be provided.

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The explosion took place at the plant's dust settling chamber. Six workers died on the spot, while five others sustained serious burns, said district collector Deepak Soni.

Also read: Fire breaks out at garment unit in Ghatkopar, three injured

Police and administrative officials rushed to the site and initiated relief and rescue operations. The injured workers were rushed to Chhattisgarh Institute of Medical Sciences in Bilaspur.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ritesh Mishra
Ritesh Mishra is the State Correspondent for Chhattisgarh with Hindustan Times. He reports on Maoism, internal security, politics, mining, governance, and major developments shaping the state. Based in Raipur, he has covered Chhattisgarh since 2016, reporting extensively from the Bastar region and other conflict-affected areas. With nearly two decades of experience in journalism, Ritesh has built a reputation for ground reporting from some of India's most challenging terrains. His coverage spans Left-Wing Extremism, counter-insurgency operations, elections, tribal affairs, environmental issues, infrastructure, mining, and socio-economic developments. He has reported on major security operations, policy initiatives, wildlife crime, and the changing dynamics of conflict and development in Central India. Before moving to Chhattisgarh, Ritesh spent eight years reporting from Madhya Pradesh, covering politics, administration, crime, development, and social issues. Throughout his career, he has reported on various forms of extremism in Central India, combining field reporting with in-depth analysis to produce accurate, balanced, and impactful journalism. Prior to joining Hindustan Times, Ritesh worked with The Pioneer and The Free Press Journal, where he covered a wide range of beats and honed his skills in political, investigative, and field reporting. His reporting is marked by exclusive stories, extensive fieldwork, and a commitment to factual, on-the-ground journalism that brings complex issues to a wider audience.Read More

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