Barc investigating if dead scientists were careless

A day after two young research scientists died in a massive fire at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, the organisation is investigating if there were any lapses or carelessness on their part.

Tuesday’s fire was the second such incident in the past couple of days. “A week ago, there was a small fire five blocks/modules away from Tuesday’s spot,” SK Malhotra, head of the public awareness division, Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), said.

“Umang Singh was involved. So, we are trying to find out if he was always careful or not.” Singh was one of the scientists killed in Tuesday’s fire.

Barc has, however, ruled out sabotage or mischief. “It is most likely an accident at work. There were no security lapses,” he said. “We learn from every incident, good or bad. We see how things could have been better or what could have been avoided. We are always cautious; our safety record is good.”

In 1963, there was a bigger accident while distilling benzene, he said. One person was killed. “There have been small fires, but nothing of this nature. In the late 1980s or start of 1990s, there was an accident involving a crane,” Malhotra said. “Based on the investigations, we will decide if the operative process needs to be modified.”

Barc will decide if the staff needs safety training. Work at the organisation has almost stopped. “It is natural; people have lost two of their colleagues,” Malhotra said.