INDIA – Two killed and nine injured after reactor explosion at Telangana pharmaceutical facility

Two workers were killed and nine others injured after a reactor exploded at Hazelo Lab Private Limited, a pharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Dothigudem village, Telangana, India, late on Friday, 21 August 2026.

The incident occurred during the night shift at the facility, which is located on the outskirts of Dothigudem. The explosion was followed by a fire, with flames and smoke spreading through the affected part of the plant.

Emergency services were called to the facility following the blast. Firefighters worked to contain the fire and eventually brought it under control, while police and other emergency personnel attended the scene and secured the area.

Two workers died as a result of the incident, while nine others sustained injuries and were taken to a private hospital in Hyderabad for treatment. Two of the injured workers were reported to have burns covering more than 50 per cent of their bodies.

Police subsequently registered a case and began investigating the circumstances surrounding the explosion. Authorities are also examining whether any safety-related issues may have contributed to the incident.

The cause of the reactor explosion had not been established in the reports available at the time. The investigation remains ongoing, and further details are expected as authorities continue their inquiries.

Photo credit: Times of India. All rights reserved.