A huge explosion at a steel factory in Western Turkey has left at least 17 people dead and 13 injured
The explosion occurred when a crane lifting a boiler collapsed into a large industrial furnace, causing a huge fire.
An explosion at a steel factory in Western Turkey has resulted in at least 17 fatalities and 13 injuries, according to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The blast occurred at around noon when a crane lifting a new boiler toppled into a furnace used for liquid steel casting at the HABAS plant in Aliaga, Izmir province. President Erdogan expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident during a televised address following a Cabinet meeting.
The exact cause and circumstances of the accident are still under investigation, with authorities determining whether negligence played a role and who should bear responsibility. Eyewitnesses reported that the explosion sounded like an earthquake. Izmir Mayor Cemil Tugay informed via social media that rescue teams are still working to remove the fallen platform and that the affected individuals are factory workers.
HABAS is a privately owned company and one of Turkey's leading steel producers, with the facility established in 1987 and capable of manufacturing 4.5 million tons of steel annually. Reports from workers' groups suggest a history of safety concerns at HABAS.
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