Rome, 9 April 2024 (dpa/MIA) - At least three workers were killed and three others injured in an explosion at a hydroelectric power plant on a reservoir in northern Italy on Tuesday, the authorities said.

In addition, six workers were still missing in the evening at the plant on the Suviana reservoir between the cities of Bologna and Florence.

According to initial findings, a fire broke out during work on a turbine at a depth of around 30 metres, which led to the explosion. The dam itself was not affected.

The fire brigade had great difficulty reaching the site of the accident due to the heavy smoke.

The mayor of the nearby small town of Camougnano, Marco Masinara, reported that work was being carried out on the turbines inside the building. The accident occurred far below the water level at level minus nine, he said, adding that water also entered the power plant as a result of the explosion.

The lake is located in a regional park in the Apennines at an altitude of just under 500 metres above sea level. It was created by the construction of a dam in 1928-32.

The fire brigade was also deployed with several helicopters.

The electricity supplier Enel, which owns the power station, confirmed the accident without providing further details.

Photo: Screenshot