At least six workers died and five others were injured in a blast at a steel plant in Chhattisgarh’s Balodabazar-Bhatapara district on Thursday, January 22, 2026. The explosion happened at Real Ispat and Power Ltd in Bakulahi village, Bhatapara rural area, said District Collector Deepak Soni. The blast took place in the Dust Settling Chamber (DSC) of the unit. Hot dust fell on the workers, causing serious burns. Six workers died on the spot, and five more sustained serious burns. Police and senior officials immediately reached the site and started rescue operations. The injured were admitted to the Chhattisgarh Institute of Medical Sciences (CIMS) in Bilaspur. State Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal spoke to the Collector. He said, "I have instructed him to provide the best possible treatment to the injured persons." He also called for a thorough investigation and promised, "swift and strict action against those responsible." Mr. Jaiswal expressed deep grief and prayed for peace for the victims. He said, "The State government stands firmly with the affected families in this difficult time and assured that all necessary assistance will be provided."