A catastrophic fire and explosion rocked a pharmaceutical unit in Andhra Pradesh’s Atchutapuram on Wednesday, claiming the lives of 18 people and leaving 33 others injured. The incident occurred at Escientia Advanced Science Pvt Ltd, a manufacturer of intermediate chemicals and active pharmaceutical ingredients (API), at around 2:15 pm.Eyewitnesses described harrowing scenes as injured workers, with severe burns and bleeding, were rushed to hospitals in ambulances. The fire, suspected to be electricity-related, could have resulted in higher casualties had it not been for the lunch break, which reduced the number of workers present in the plant.Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has ordered a high-level inquiry into the incident, promising strict action against the management if negligence is found to be the cause. The company, which commenced production in April 2019 with an investment of Rs 200 crore, employs 381 people in two shifts.Rescue efforts were swift, with 13 people trapped in the unit rescued using ladder vehicles. The injured are being treated at various hospitals in Anakapalli and Atchutapuram, with air ambulance services on standby for those requiring specialized care.The Chief Minister has assured support for the families of the deceased and injured workers, and will visit the site on Thursday to meet with them. Deputy Chief Minister Konidala Pawan Kalyan has also condoled the loss of lives and directed authorities to conduct a safety audit and ensure strict implementation of safety standards and regulations.