Sangareddy: Burn survivor still awaits compensation 2 years after industrial fire

Pankaj Kumar, a migrant worker from Bihar who suffered 70 per cent burns in a 2023 industrial fire at Niehoff of India, returned to Pashamylaram seeking compensation and employment that the company had promised but never delivered

Sangareddy: Two years after sustaining 70 per cent burn injuries in a fire accident at Niehoff of India Limited, a migrant worker from Bihar is still awaiting compensation and employment that were assured to him by the company management.

Pankaj Kumar (25), who miraculously survived the July 2023 industrial fire at the company located in the Pashamylaram industrial area, returned to the site on Wednesday, hoping to raise the issue once more with the district authorities.

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Speaking to Telangana Today, Pankaj recalled the ordeal, stating that eight workers were injured in the mishap, of whom one, G Kishan Kumar, succumbed to injuries. While six of the injured returned to work soon after recovery as they suffered only minor burns, Pankaj was bedridden for months due to the severity of his injuries. He said the company management had then promised Rs 15 lakh in compensation and a permanent job post recovery. “They made commitments, but nothing has materialised. I waited for months, but no one helped, neither the company nor trade unions,” he said.

With no family support following the death of his parents, Pankaj had to return to Bihar to take care of his younger sister. Unable to earn due to his physical condition, he has been struggling for survival.

On Wednesday, he came back to the Pashamylaram industrial area after learning that the district administration had intervened in the recent Sigachi Industries explosion case, ensuring compensation for both the deceased and injured workers. He was seen waiting at the industrial area office, seeking to submit a representation to the officials, in the hope that he would finally receive the justice and support he was promised nearly two years ago.