Visakhapatnam: AP home minister Vangalapudi Anitha convened a review meeting on industrial safety protocols on Saturday following a tragic incident at Escientia Pharma in Achutapuram SEZ, where 17 individuals died and 38 others suffered injuries.Industrialists, officials and representatives of various associations attended the review meeting held at Anakapalli. Anitha underlined that most accidents in bulk drug industries are caused by reactors. It is imperative to prevent these incidents by adhering to safety standards, she stated. She urged industrialists to collaborate in ensuring that no lives are lost due to negligence. She announced that district-level safety committees will be established to oversee compliance in high-risk industries. The minister said in response to the tragedy, state government has provided Rs 1 crore to the families of each deceased, Rs 50 lakh to those severely injured and Rs 25 lakhs for those with minor injuries. She said medical care of the injured is being closely monitored. Anitha said a case has been filed against the company’s owner. District collector Vijaya Krishnan emphasised that every industry must regularly review its safety standards. MP C.M. Ramesh maintained that safety must be prioritised alongside industrial development. The meeting concluded with a two-minute silence in memory of victims.
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