ROME, Italy – Divers in northern Italy have successfully recovered the final two bodies of workers who tragically lost their lives in an explosion at an underground hydroelectric plant. The incident, which occurred at the Enel Green Power plant in northern Bologna province, resulted in the collapse and flooding of multiple levels, ultimately leading to a death toll of seven individuals.
The explosion, which took place at a depth of approximately 40 meters below water level, left four other workers injured, with two of them still in serious condition. The recovery efforts, lasting over two days, were described by divers as akin to navigating through the aftermath of an underwater earthquake-struck building.
According to officials, the blast occurred during maintenance work aimed at enhancing the plant’s efficiency. The company, Enel Green Power, stated that the incident was sparked by the explosion of a turbine on the eighth floor below the surface, subsequently causing flooding on the level below. As of now, the exact cause of the explosion remains unknown.
Local prosecutors have taken action by initiating an investigation into the accident, seeking to shed light on the circumstances that led to this tragic event. The recovery of the last two bodies marks the conclusion of a challenging and emotional recovery mission for the divers and rescue teams involved in the operation.
The community continues to grapple with the aftermath of the explosion, mourning the loss of the seven individuals who perished in the incident. As the region comes to terms with this devastating event, questions linger regarding the safety protocols in place at the hydroelectric plant and the measures that can be implemented to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Efforts to support the families of the victims and provide assistance to those injured in the blast are ongoing, as the community seeks to heal and rebuild in the wake of this heartbreaking disaster. The recovery of the final two bodies brings closure to this chapter, but the impact of the explosion will be felt for a long time to come in the hearts and minds of those affected.