At least 18 people have been injured in an explosion at the Shagonarskaya thermal power plant in Russia’s Tuva, Interfax news agency reported citing the press service of the Ministry of Emergency Situations for the southern Siberian republic.
The blast occurred in a boiler room early on Wednesday, leading to a fire. Workers have been evacuated from the plant.
The head of Tuva Vladislav Khovalyg reported in his Telegram channel that at least 18 people were injured as a result of the incident and were taken to hospital. They are being trated for burns. 6 are in serious condition. 3 people are missing and are feared to be trapped under the rubble following the blast.
The fire covering 50 square meters has been contained. The exact cause of the explosion and the subsequent blaze is now being established.
The territory of the plant is now cordoned off, emergency services are working at the scene.
The incident led to hot water supply to local residents being turned off, some were left without heating. The plant is still operational and local authorities say hot water supply will be resumed by evening.
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