Nine Dead in Chennai: Thermal Power Project Turns Into a Scene of Tragedy

Nine dead in Chennai a shocking construction accident shook the city on Tuesday when an unfinished arch structure at the North Chennai Thermal Power Station in Ennore came crashing down, killing nine workers and injuring more than ten others. The heavy structure collapsed from about 30 feet, trapping several labourers beneath debris and exposing alarming safety concerns at the power project site.

Emergency teams rushed to the scene and pulled out the injured, who were immediately taken to Stanley Government Hospital for treatment. One worker remains in critical condition, while others are under observation. The construction area has now been cordoned off as authorities begin a full-scale investigation.

Nine Dead in Chennai: Government Steps In and Inquiry Underway

Senior officials, including Dr. J. Radhakrishnan from the Tamil Nadu Electricity Board, visited the injured at the hospital and closely monitored the situation. Police under the Avadi Commissionerate have started a thorough probe to find out what caused the structure to collapse. Preliminary findings hint at potential negligence or structural flaws, but a detailed report will follow after inspections.

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin expressed his condolences to the victims’ families and announced a compensation of ₹10 lakh for each. He also directed officials to provide immediate support and ensure the bodies are transported to the workers’ home states without delay. “The state will ensure strict accountability and safety reforms,” Stalin said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his sorrow over the incident and announced ₹2 lakh ex-gratia for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF). “Deeply saddened by the loss of lives in Chennai. My prayers are with the families and for the speedy recovery of the injured,” he said. Also Read: Heartbreaking Video Shows 36 Dead and Dozens Injured in Karur Vijay Rally Stampede

9 migrant workers from Assam have reportedly succumbed to death after falling down at a construction site at Minjur, Thiruvallur district, today while carrying out construction works for extension of North Chennai Thermal Power Station.

4 of the victims are from Karbi Anglong…

— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) September 30, 2025

Nine Dead in Chennai: A Wake-Up Call After Previous Accidents

The tragic event has revived concerns over construction site safety in Tamil Nadu. Earlier this year, a similar incident during the demolition of Madurai’s Mattuthavani Bus Stand arch led to the death of an operator and injuries to a contractor. Experts say repeated accidents point to systemic safety lapses that must be addressed urgently to protect workers and prevent future disasters.

Saddened by the mishap due to the collapse of a building in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. My thoughts are with the affected people and their families in this difficult hour. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured.

An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next…

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) September 30, 2025

Conclusion

The deadly collapse at the North Chennai Thermal Power Station stands as a harsh reminder of the dangers construction workers face daily. As investigations continue, the focus is now on enforcing stronger safety regulations and holding those responsible accountable. For the grieving families, compensation offers limited solace but the hope is that such tragedies will lead to lasting change in workplace safety standards.