A catastrophic fire erupted at Escientia Advanced Sciences Private Ltd. in the Special Economic Zone at Atchutapuram, Anakapalli, Andhra Pradesh, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least 18 workers and leaving 20 others seriously injured. The blaze, reportedly triggered by a reactor explosion, has shocked the region and prompted an immediate response from the Andhra Pradesh government. Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has announced a substantial ex-gratia payment of Rs 1 crore for each family of the deceased and has directed officials to ensure the highest quality of medical treatment for the injured.

Chief Minister Naidu is set to visit the site of the disaster and meet with those receiving treatment at Medicover Hospital later today. Authorities, including police and forensic experts, are actively investigating the cause of the explosion. The District Collector of Visakhapatnam has assured that a team of experts will be dispatched to determine the reasons behind the accident.

Despite the swift response from the state government, including financial aid and moral support for the affected families, the opposition YSR Congress party has criticized the government's handling of the incident. The opposition's criticism highlights ongoing political tensions, even as the focus remains on addressing the immediate needs and safety concerns following this tragic event.