Chemical plant explosion in Gujarat kills five workers, injures five

The explosion ripped through SynZeal Pharmachem in the Saykha GIDC industrial estate in Vagra taluka around 10 pm on Friday, authorities said. The blast was powerful enough to rupture the reactor tank and scatter machinery debris across the manufacturing unit's premises.

The facility, established approximately a year ago, specializes in the production of pharmaceutical intermediaries. Officials attributed the explosion to a malfunction during the hydrogenation process, which triggered the release of methylene dichloride gas into the surrounding area.

According to the Bharuch Superintendent of Police Akshyaraj Makwana, five workers were confirmed dead while another five sustained injuries in the incident. Among the deceased were Jaydeep Maheshbhai Patel and Bhavik Dilipkumar Vasava, both residents of Amod.

Bharauch Sub-Divisional Magistrate Manisha Manani confirmed the preliminary investigation findings. Emergency response teams were mobilized to the site to manage the toxic leak and conduct rescue operations. Authorities have initiated an inquiry into the circumstances that led to the blast.