India, June 30 -- A devastating explosion at the Sigachi Industries pharmaceutical plant in Telangana's Pashamylaram industrial estate on Monday claimed the lives of at least 12 people and left 34 others injured, according to state Health Minister Damodara Raja Narasimha.

The blast occurred between 9:28 am and 9:35 am due to a suspected chemical reaction inside a reactor at the plant, leading to a massive fire. Labour Minister G Vivek Venkatswamy confirmed that eight people died earlier in the day, with four more bodies recovered later. Both ministers visited the accident site to oversee rescue and relief operations.

Inspector General of Police V Satyanarayana said around 150 workers were present in the factory at the time of the explos...