Mohali Oxygen Plant Blast Sparks Political Debate on Industrial Safety
A deadly explosion at High Tech Gases, an oxygen cylinder manufacturing unit in Mohali’s Phase-9 industrial area, has reignited debates about workplace safety and regulatory oversight in Punjab. The blast killed two workers and injured three others, leaving shattered windows and scattered debris across the site while triggering urgent questions about accountability.
The Immediate Aftermath
Emergency teams rushed to the facility after the explosion, which reportedly originated during cylinder filling operations. Victims Asif (28) and Devinder were pronounced dead at Phase 6’s Civil Hospital. Local residents described the blast as “earth-shaking,” with some blaming inadequate safety protocols at the plant.
Source: Pexels Image
Political Repercussions and Public Safety Demands
Opposition leaders have criticized the Punjab government, citing previous concerns about oxygen supply chain management during COVID-19. “This tragedy exposes systemic failures in enforcing industrial safety norms,” said AAP spokesperson Malvinder Kang. The incident comes months after audits revealed operational flaws in 93% of Punjab’s pandemic-era oxygen plants.
Regulatory Gaps Under Scrutiny
Key issues raised include:
- Compliance with 2022 amendments to India’s Factories Act
- Frequency of safety inspections in industrial zones
- Compensation standards for accident victims
While the district administration has promised a thorough probe, labor unions demand stricter penalties for violations. As Punjab prepares for 2024 assembly elections, will this tragedy become a catalyst for stronger safety legislation—or fade as another statistic in India’s industrial accident records?
