India: Sigachi Factory Fire Death Toll Rises to 39, Cause Still Unknown

The explosion occurred on Monday at the facility operated by Sigachi Industries Ltd. (SIGC.NS), a key manufacturer of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) used across the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries globally.

“We are still clearing the debris,” said GV Narayana Rao, Director of Telangana Fire Disaster Response Services. “Only after that will we be able to confirm if any more bodies are trapped beneath.”

The building completely collapsed during the fire, which broke out while over 140 workers were present. According to local administrative officer P. Pravinya, 25 of the deceased are yet to be identified.

Eyewitness Chandan Gound, a factory employee, recounted the horror:

“I stepped out to use the restroom and heard a loud blast — it sounded like a bomb. Flames spread toward me. I jumped the wall and escaped. Many managed to get out, but several were trapped inside.”

In response to the tragedy, the Telangana government has formed a five-member committee to investigate the cause of the explosion. Sigachi has suspended operations at the plant for 90 days, citing significant structural and equipment damage.

The facility contributes to over 25% of Sigachi's total production capacity of 21,700 million metric tons per annum. The company stated the plant is fully insured, and it has begun processing insurance claims.

Following the incident, Sigachi shares dropped 8%, marking the sharpest two-day decline in the company’s trading history.

Separate Fire Incident in Tamil Nadu

In a separate incident on Tuesday, five people died and four were injured in a fire at a crackers factory in Sivakasi, Tamil Nadu — a region notorious for such accidents. Authorities have launched an inquiry into the cause of that blaze as well.