Newz Desk, Durgapur: A major industrial accident at a graphite factory in Durgapur on today afternoon left three workers seriously injured, triggering panic and anger among labourers. According to police and labour sources, the incident occurred when welding work was underway on an upper level while hot pitch was stored below. Sparks from the welding allegedly fell onto the pitch, causing a sudden explosion-like flare-up that engulfed the area in flames.
The injured workers—Abhijit Bhui, Ujjal Mukhopadhyay and Mrinal Roy—were rushed to a private multi-super speciality hospital in Bidhannagar. Among them, Mrinal Roy sustained the most severe burns, with a majority of his body reportedly charred. Doctors said all three workers remain in critical condition.
Dr. Tirtha Mukhopadhyay of the hospital stated, “All three are in a critical state. Mrinal Roy is extremely serious. Each of them has suffered major burn injuries, and treatment is ongoing.” As Mrinal’s condition worsened, he was placed on ventilator support. Hospital sources said the workers have suffered between 50–70 per cent burn injuries.
Workers erupt in anger over alleged lack of safety measures
Soon after the accident, tension spread outside the factory. The CITU workers’ union accused the management of gross negligence, alleging that safety rules are routinely ignored.
Their key allegations include:
- Safety protocols are not properly followed inside the factory
- Workers lack adequate protective equipment
- Simultaneous welding and pitch-tank operations pose a severe risk
Union leaders said, “Had the management taken basic precautions, three workers would not have been burnt today. We have long demanded a full safety audit of the factory.”
Meanwhile, Coke Oven police have launched a detailed investigation. Sources said they have already sought the factory’s safety audit records.
The accident has left workers frightened and families devastated. Relatives of the injured men have gathered outside the hospital, anxiously waiting for updates on their condition.
