Fire at Russian Factory Claims 24 Lives, Injures Over 150

The death toll from a devastating fire at the Elastik plant in Russia’s Ryazan region has risen to 24, with at least 157 others injured. The incident occurred on September 29, 2023, prompting emergency crews to search through the debris for survivors, according to officials from the Emergency Situations Ministry.

The fire broke out at the facility located in the Shilovsky district, approximately 250 kilometers (about 155 miles) southeast of Moscow. Reports indicate that a gunpowder workshop within the plant exploded, resulting in a catastrophic blaze. State news agency RIA Novosti has documented images showing the extensive damage, with parts of the building reduced to rubble.

Investigators are currently assessing the cause of the fire, which has drawn significant attention due to the plant’s troubled safety record. Local authorities declared October 2, 2023, a day of mourning in Ryazan, reflecting the profound impact of this tragedy on the community.

This incident marks the second deadly event at the Elastik plant in less than two years. In October 2021, a previous explosion at a workshop operated by the explosives manufacturer Razryad resulted in the deaths of 17 individuals. Such recurring tragedies raise serious concerns about safety regulations and practices at industrial facilities in the region.

As families mourn their losses, the focus now turns to understanding how such incidents can be prevented in the future. The Emergency Situations Ministry continues to work closely with local authorities to provide support for those affected and to determine the necessary steps to enhance safety measures in industrial settings.