Explosion at Indian Pharmaceutical Plant Kills 18

An explosion at a pharmaceutical plant in Andhra Pradesh, India, has resulted in the deaths of at least 18 workers, with the toll rising from 15 as three of the injured succumbed in hospital. The incident, which occurred during a chemical reactor fire, left around 40 people injured, some critically, as they were transported to hospitals. Officials suspect an electrical fault may have caused the blaze, prompting state authorities to launch an investigation into the incident at Escientia Company in Anakapalle district. The plant employs approximately 380 workers, many of whom were on lunch break at the time of the explosion. This accident marks one of the most severe industrial mishaps in recent years in a region known for hazardous incidents. The state government has pledged to investigate the causes behind the explosion and ensure safety measures are reviewed to prevent future tragedies.