At least six people were killed and more than 10 others sustained injuries after a blast at a sponge iron factory in Chhattisgarh&rsquo;s Baloda Bazar&ndash;Bhatapara district on Thursday, officials said.
The explosion occurred at the Real Ispat Sponge Iron Factory located in Bakulahi village, under the Bhatapara rural area. Visuals from the site showed thick plumes of black smoke rising into the air following the blast, triggering panic in the surrounding region.
According to police officials, the incident was reported early in the day, following which local police, fire services, and senior administrative officers rushed to the spot. Rescue and relief operations were immediately launched to evacuate workers and control the situation.
The injured were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment, with several reported to be in critical condition. Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the explosion, but preliminary assessments suggest an industrial accident.
Firefighters worked to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to adjacent units within the factory premises. The area was cordoned off as a safety precaution while rescue teams continued operations.
Officials said an investigation has been initiated to determine the cause of the blast and to assess whether safety norms were violated. Further details are awaited as authorities continue to monitor the situation.

Sponge iron plant explosion leaves over 10 injured in Baloda Bazar district

6 Killed in Chhattisgarh Factory Blast

Sponge iron plant explosion leaves over 10 injured in Baloda Bazar district

January 22, 2026 | 14:01 IST