At least seven people lost their lives, and 48 others sustained injuries following a devastating explosion at a chemical factory in the Dombivli MIDC area. The incident occurred on May 23, 2024, around 1:40 pm. The Amudan Chemical Company, located in Phase 2 of Dombivli, experienced a catastrophic reactor explosion, resulting in a major fire.

What Happened in Dombivli

• Explosion: A boiler at the Amudan Chemical Company exploded, causing significant damage and triggering a massive fire.
• Impact: The blast affected adjacent factories in the vicinity.
• Smoke and Debris: The entire area was covered in smog, and window glasses shattered due to the force of the explosion. The residential area nearby felt the impact.
• Emergency Response: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed that arrangements were made for treating the injured. Additional ambulances were deployed, and rescue teams, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and fire brigade, were on-site.
• Casualties: Unfortunately, six lives were lost, and 48 people were injured. The injured are receiving treatment at AIMS, Neptune, and Global hospitals.
• Investigation: District authorities have been instructed to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.
• Securing the Site: Firefighting teams and medical personnel secured the site, allowing swift rescue operations.
• Responsibility: Authorities will take action against those found responsible for the accident.

Reactions and Support

• Government Assistance: Industries Minister Uday Samant, local MP Shrikant Shinde, and MLA Raju Patil visited the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) area, approximately 40 km from Mumbai. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced that the government would cover the expenses for treating the injured and directed prompt compensation for the victims.
• Impact: The blast’s intensity was such that it could be heard up to a kilometer away. Adjoining buildings’ glass windows cracked, and several houses in the vicinity suffered damage.

Our thoughts are with the families who lost their loved ones. We hope for a speedy recovery for the injured. As authorities investigate the cause of this tragic incident, the community rallies together to support those affected by this devastating event¹²³⁴.