A 35-year-old worker, Prakash Yadav, died after seriously injured on Wednesday morning at the Koderma Thermal Power Station (KTPS) in Jainagar, Koderma district, while separating coal-laden wagons for unloading. The incident resulted widespread anger among plant workers, who placed the body at the entrance gate, blocked the gate and demanded Rs. 20 lakh compensation, a job for a dependent and immediate safety reforms. The workers refused to resume duty until compensation and safety guarantees were secured for the family of the deceased labourer.
Also Read: Bokaro Steel, A Workplace Where Accidents Ignored Until Casualties
Settlement Reached After Management Intervention
The agitation ended only after senior officials, including CGM Manoj Kumar Thakur, held talks with the protestors. The family was handed a cheque of Rs. 10 lakh on the spot, with an assurance of Rs. 5 lakh more within a week. Management also agreed to provide a job to a dependent and ensure 90% EPF benefits as pension to the widow. Following the settlement, the blockade was lifted and the body was handed over to the family.
Also Read: Worker Died in Venkatesh Iron Factory Due to Safety Lapses
Plant Operations Still Disrupted, Workers Stayed Away
Though the protest ended, plant activity did not resume for the rest of the day as workers did not return to duty. ACTU district secretary Vijay Paswan alleged that the plant lacked even a 24-hour ambulance facility. He said frequent accidents were a result of ignored safety standards and demanded emergency medical services, safety equipment and restored alarm systems before normal work is resumed.
Also Read: Contract Worker Lost Both Hands in Accident at Bokaro Steel Plant
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