The 15‑kilolitre reactor at SynZeal Pharmachem ruptured during a hydrogenation run in the Saykha GIDC estate, sending debris beyond the plant and killing five employees on Oct 17.
Methylene dichloride escaped, turning the surrounding air into a choking haze that forced workers to evacuate and caused eye irritation among on‑site personnel. Six others were rushed to Bharuch and Vadodara hospitals for treatment.
Police, the Sub‑Divisional Magistrate, and safety officials converged on the scene, launching rescue operations and beginning an inquiry into compliance with safety regulations. Sub‑Divisional Magistrate Manisha Manani said the blast occurred during the hydrogenation process.
The Gujarat Pollution Control Board and Industrial Safety and Health Department will conduct a forensic analysis of the reactor and the chemical release, while the company’s 53‑employee workforce remains on standby. Four deceased identified as Jaideep Patel, Aniketkumar Harikishor, Arjun Ramsingh Gautam, and Vrund Talavia, with a fifth victim still being identified.