Joint Collector headed expert panel to probe seven industrial accident deaths in AP

KAKINADA: Kakinada district collector Kritika Shukla has appointed a six-member committee headed by joint collector Ilakkiya to probe the industrial accident at Ambati Subbanna Edible Oils near G. Ragampeta village of Peddapuram Mandal on Thursday in which seven workers died due to suffocation.

Earlier, Peddapuram Mandal tahsildar had submitted a report to the collector that seven factory workers died on Thursday between 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. while cleaning boiler tanks at Ambati Subbanna Edible Oils.

Based on this report, Shukla appointed the probe committee that includes, apart from the joint collector, deputy commissioner of labour, deputy inspector of factories, executive engineer of A.P. Pollution Control Board, district industries officer and Peddapuram revenue divisional officer.

The committee will inquire into the cause of the incident with reference to compliance with all safety and security requirements by the management. It will make suggestions/recommendations about measures to be taken for ensuring that such incidents do not recur in future anywhere in the district. The committee shall submit its report within three days.

Shukla visited the spot and enquired about the accident. She told the media that a case has been registered against the management and the factory sealed. Action will be taken against the persons responsible.

Expressing her condolences, the home minister said the state government has announced ₹25 lakhs as ex-gratia and the company will give another ₹25 lakhs. Total of ₹50 lakhs in financial assistance will be provided to each of the seven bereaved families.

Labour minister Gummunuri Jayaram announced that one person from each deceased family will be provided employment.