Rs 20 Lakh for next of kin of those killed in NTPC explosion; Magisterial probe ordered

Meanwhile, the state administration has ordered a magisterial probe into the incident.

A massive explosion had ripped a boiler at the NTPC's Unchahar plant and the death toll in the incident had risen up to 26, officials said.

"I am of the view that the ex-gratia which was earlier announced was not enough. Rs 20 lakh compensation will be given to the next of kin of those who died in the accident, while the seriously injured will get Rs 10 lakh and those who sustained minor injuries will be given Rs 2 lakh," he told reporters in Unchahar.

This amount is in addition to the compensation provided under the workmen compensation rules, he said.

Deputy Chief Minister Dinesh Sharma, who visited the accident site, termed the incident as gory and saddening.

"Our priority at this point in time is that proper treatment should be ensured to the injured persons. We stand by the families of those dead in their hour of grief. Teams of NTPC and NDRF have already arrived here," he said.

Sharma said a magisterial inquiry has been ordered by the district magistrate.

The NTPC too has ordered a probe, officials said.

Meanwhile, UP Chief Secretary Rajive Kumar said in Lucknow that a number of patients who have come to the state capital were "substantially burnt" and doctors and medical staff were giving them the best possible treatment.

He said the state government will ensure that there is no shortage of medicines at the hospitals.