Surat, November 30: In a harrowing incident, seven workers have lost their lives in a devastating blast and fire that engulfed a chemical factory in Surat, Gujarat. The tragic event occurred at Ather Industries, a chemical manufacturing facility located in Sachin GIDC, on Wednesday night.
The fire, which broke out between 1:30 AM and 2:00 AM, rapidly spread through the factory, trapping several workers inside. The intense flames, fueled by the presence of a large quantity of chemical liquids, left seven workers with no chance of escape. Their bodies were severely charred, rendering them unrecognizable.
DNA Identification Required
The severity of the fire has left the bodies of the seven deceased workers in such a condition that traditional identification methods are not viable. As a result, DNA testing has become the only means of identifying the victims. This arduous task has fallen upon the Surat Joint Police Commissioner, K.N. Damour, and his team.
"Multiple agencies are investigating the incident," stated Damour. "Efforts are being made to identify all the deceased through DNA samples. At present, two have been identified."
DNA Sampling and Investigation
The Surat Joint Police Commissioner's team has collected DNA samples from the victims and their families to facilitate identification. The DNA test results are expected to arrive within 5-7 working days.
Once the DNA test results are received, the bodies will be handed over to their respective families for cremation.
Ongoing Investigation
A case of accidental death has been registered by the police, and a thorough investigation is underway. Upon the completion of the investigation, based on the reports from various agencies, appropriate criminal charges will be filed.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers associated with chemical manufacturing. As investigations continue, the focus must remain on ensuring the safety of workers in such hazardous environments.
