Rourkela, Odisha – June 21, 2025 – A somber mood has fallen over Rourkela following the tragic death of a contract worker at the Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP). The incident, which occurred yesterday, has sparked immediate protests and reignited serious concerns about industrial safety, especially for contractual laborers.
The deceased, identified as Mr. Gopi Hembram (29), was working for Utkal Projects Pvt Ltd, a contract firm engaged by RSP. According to reports, Mr. Hembram was at the coke oven battery-3 unit when he suddenly collapsed. He was rushed to the Ispat General Hospital (IGH) but was declared brought dead by doctors. While initial reports did not specify the exact cause of death, union leaders suggest it was a work-related incident, potentially a suspected heart attack as per some sources.
The news of Mr. Hembram’s untimely demise quickly led to a strong reaction from various trade unions, including INTUC and CITU, along with other contractual workers and Mr. Hembram’s relatives. They gathered at IGH, refusing to take possession of his body until their demands were met.
The core of their protest centers on better safety measures for contract workers and fair compensation for Mr. Hembram’s grieving family. Union representatives highlighted that Mr. Hembram leaves behind his widow and a two-year-old son, with no one else to support them. They are demanding substantial compensation and a permanent job for one of his family members at RSP.
This incident is not isolated. Rourkela Steel Plant has faced scrutiny in the past regarding workplace safety. Several accidents, including gas leaks and other mishaps, have unfortunately claimed workers’ lives over the years, raising questions about the implementation of safety protocols for all employees, direct or contractual.
RSP officials have acknowledged the incident and have reportedly engaged in discussions with the protesting groups. While some financial assistance has been offered to the bereaved family, detailed terms of compensation and job assistance are still under negotiation. An internal investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mr. Hembram’s death is also expected to be launched.
The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks in heavy industries and underscores the critical need for robust safety standards and equitable treatment for all workers, regardless of their employment status. The community now awaits concrete actions from the Rourkela Steel Plant management to address these long-standing safety concerns and ensure that such heartbreaking incidents are prevented in the future.