Two workers were killed and five suffered injuries after an explosion on a ship at a private shipyard in South Goa’s Loutolim on Friday evening, said police.
According to police, the explosion occurred in an enclosed chamber in an under-repair ship at the shipyard at around 6 pm at Rassaim in Loutolim. Fire department officials said a call was received at 6.10 pm about a blast at Vijai Marine Services Shipyard. Two workers were killed on the spot, while five were rushed to hospitals.
“There was an explosion in the electrical panel on the anchor deck of a ship that was undergoing repairs. The two who were killed were employed on a daily wage basis,” said leading fireman Antonio Moniz.
Officials said the 160-metre boat had been lowered into the water and had recently undergone painting work. “High temperatures and the enclosed space filled with volatile gases after the painting job may have caused the explosion. The exact cause will be ascertained after a detailed inquiry,” an official said.
A police official said, “Two workers were declared brought dead. Four workers suffered 80% burn injuries and remain critical, while one worker was discharged.”
