A powerful explosion at a steel manufacturing plant in western Turkey has killed at least 10 workers and injured 15 others, triggering a major rescue operation and investigation into industrial safety.
The devastating incident occurred on Monday, November 9, 2026, at the HABAS iron and steel factory in Aliaga, approximately 60 kilometres north of Izmir. The explosion sparked a massive fire, sending thick smoke into the sky.
What Triggered the Deadly Factory Explosion?
According to preliminary findings, an overhead crane collapsed into a large industrial furnace during the liquid steel casting process.
The impact reportedly triggered a powerful blast that damaged part of the facility.
Witnesses described the explosion as extremely violent. Several residents initially believed an earthquake had struck the area.
Emergency services immediately dispatched firefighters, ambulances and search-and-rescue teams.
Rescue Teams Search for Missing Workers
Izmir Governor Suleyman Elban confirmed that the death toll had reached 10, while 15 people sustained injuries.
Four injured workers were reportedly in critical condition.
Rescue workers continued clearing collapsed structures to locate people feared trapped beneath the debris.
Authorities warned that the final casualty figures could change as emergency operations continued.
Turkey Launches Investigation Into Factory Disaster
Officials have launched an investigation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the explosion.
Four public prosecutors have reportedly been assigned to examine the incident.
The disaster has also renewed concerns about workplace safety in Turkey’s heavy manufacturing industry.
Meanwhile, two labour representatives were reportedly detained outside a hospital while attempting to raise safety concerns.
The HABAS facility is a major steel producer with an annual production capacity of approximately 4.5 million tonnes.
