Six killed, eight feared trapped after massive explosion at Turkey's Izmir steel plant
Key Takeaways
- Six people were killed and 13 injured after a blast at the HABAS Preliminary findings suggest an overhead crane fell into an electric arc furnace during molten steel casting.
- Emergency teams are searching for eight people believed trapped beneath rubble, while authorities investigate the incident.
A crane reportedly fell into a furnace containing molten steel at the HABAS plant, triggering a deadly explosion as rescuers searched for missing workers.
At least six people have died and 13 others have been injured following an explosion at the HABAS iron and steel plant in Turkey's western Izmir province on Monday.
The blast occurred at approximately 12:00 local time (09:00 GMT) in the Aliaga district, causing a fire and leaving several workers trapped beneath debris.
Emergency teams were dispatched to the facility as thick smoke rose above the industrial site. Ambulances transported injured workers to nearby hospitals while firefighters worked to contain the fire.
According to the Izmir Governor's Office, preliminary investigations suggest that an overhead crane became detached and fell into an electric arc furnace during the casting of molten steel.
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The incident initially claimed three lives, with authorities reporting 14 injuries.
However, the death toll later increased to six after one injured worker died in hospital and rescue teams recovered two additional bodies from the rubble.
Thirteen people were reported injured, including two in critical condition.
Local authorities said rescue operations were continuing for eight people believed to be trapped beneath the collapsed structure.
Izmir Mayor Cemil Tugay said the full extent of the casualties would only be established after emergency workers completed clearing the debris.
Authorities have opened an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the explosion.
Firefighters and rescue personnel remained at the site as efforts continued to locate the missing workers.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
