FireWatch: World Updates, August 2025

On June 30, 2025, a catastrophic explosion struck the Sigachi Industries plant in Pashamylaram, Sangareddy district, Telangana, at around 9 a.m. IST. The blast originated in the spray dryer unit, causing the surrounding four-story building to collapse while over 140 people were inside. Initial reports cited 36 deaths and 33 injuries, and by mid-July, the confirmed figures rose to 46 fatalities, 33 injured, and 8 missing. The intensity of the fire and the structural collapse resulted in many bodies being severely burned, necessitating DNA testing for identification.

Sigachi Industries, a major global producer of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC)—used in pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, and specialty chemicals—saw roughly a quarter of its annual MCC production impacted by the disaster. In the quarter ending June 2025 (Q1 FY26), the company swung from a ₹13 crore profit to a ₹101 crore loss, despite revenue increasing 34% to ₹128 crore. To mitigate the impact, production from Pashamylaram was rerouted to its Gujarat facilities in Dahej and Jhagadia, while the Telangana plant was ordered to remain shut for 90 days.

At Ruhrpumpen, this tragedy reinforces that reliable fire protection is far more than a compliance obligation. Robust fire pump systems, UL-listed and FM-approved equipment, and proactive maintenance are critical safeguards that protect lives, secure assets, and ensure uninterrupted business operations. Incidents like the Sigachi Industries explosion highlight why customers rely on Ruhrpumpen for engineered fire solutions that meet the highest global standards—solutions designed to keep facilities fully prepared, resilient, and ready to respond effectively in any emergency.