Published Jun 23, 2026 | 7:30 AM ⚊ Updated Jun 23, 2026 | 8:49 AM
Fire in a building. Representational Image. (iStock)
Synopsis: At least two workers were dead, and many others were feared injured in a major fire mishap at a unit in Paravada Pharma City of Visakhapatnam. The incident occurred on the premises of Dakshin Energy.
At least two workers were killed, and several others are feared trapped after a major fire broke out at a chemical manufacturing unit in Parawada Pharmacity in Andhra Pradesh’s Anakapalle district, on the outskirts of Visakhapatnam, early on Tuesday, 23 June.
The fire erupted at Dakshina Energy Chemical Factory, located within the Pharmacity complex. According to preliminary information, four workers who were on duty at the time of the incident were caught in the blaze. Two workers, identified as Trinadh and Venkatesh, both residents of Achyutapuram, were burnt alive. Rescue teams are searching for two others who are believed to be trapped inside the facility.
Officials suspect that a gas leak may have triggered the accident, causing the fire to spread rapidly through the factory premises. However, the exact cause of the blaze is yet to be determined.
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Firefighters, police personnel and district officials rushed to the spot and launched firefighting and rescue operations. Authorities said the extent of casualties would become clear only after the fire is brought under control and a thorough search of the premises is completed.
Andhra Pradesh Home Minister Vangalapudi Anita expressed shock over the incident and immediately directed officials to expedite rescue efforts. She spoke with the Anakapalle District Collector and Superintendent of Police to assess the situation and sought details about the circumstances leading to the accident.
The minister instructed officials to ensure the swift rescue of those trapped and provide the best possible medical treatment to the injured. Assuring support to the affected families, she said the state government would stand by the victims and take all necessary measures to prevent such industrial accidents in the future.
Meanwhile, the SEZ Anakapalle District Committee demanded compensation of ₹1 crore each for the families of the deceased workers.
A detailed investigation into the cause of the fire has been initiated.
(With inputs from Sumit Jha.)
