New Delhi

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken suo moto notice of a recent reactor explosion at a pharmaceutical plant in Anakapalli, Andhra Pradesh, which resulted in 17 deaths and 36 injuries. The explosion occurred at Escientia Advanced Sciences Private Limited on August 21, caused by a solvent leak that ignited a major fire.

NGT Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava stated the need to investigate whether the plant was following environmental regulations and if proper compensation had been given to victims’ families and the injured. The NGT has involved multiple agencies, including the Central and Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Boards, the Ministry of Environment, and local authorities. These agencies must respond to the NGT by September 23.

In response, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has announced compensation of Rs 1 crore for each deceased’s family, Rs 50 lakh for critically injured individuals, and Rs 25 lakh for those with minor injuries. The state government will also cover medical expenses and is committed to preventing future incidents.