Keonjhar: An explosion in a blast furnace of KJS Ahluwalia sponge plant under Rugudi police limits in Odisha's Keonjhar district left as many as 12 persons injured this morning.

The victims sustained critical burn injuries and were admitted to Tisco hospital in Joda. Four of them were later shifted to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack for better treatment.

Tension gripped the plant premises as workers staged dharna following the accident demanding their safety.

On being informed, police reached the spot and started investigation. The reason behind the blast is yet to be ascertained.