Tragic Firecracker Factory Blast Claims Lives in Andhra Pradesh: What We Know
Devastating Explosion in Kakinada District
Amaravati: A catastrophic explosion at a firecracker manufacturing facility near Samarlakota in Kakinada district, Andhra Pradesh, resulted in the deaths of at least 20 individuals and left 15 others injured on Saturday.
The blast occurred around 2 PM at Suryashri Fireworks, located near the Godavari canal in Vetlapalem, as reported by local authorities.
Labour Minister Vamsetti Subhash confirmed the fatalities, describing the incident as tragic.
The force of the explosion was so intense that some victims were propelled into nearby agricultural fields.
Residents of surrounding villages were thrown into panic as flames engulfed the factory, producing thick smoke. Witnesses reported that the explosions could be heard from as far as 5 kilometers away.
The blast shattered windows in nearby homes, and cracks appeared in the roof of a local school.
Firefighters, equipped with two fire engines and additional gear, quickly arrived at the scene to combat the blaze, assisted by police and other emergency services.
Fifteen injured individuals were transported to hospitals via ambulances, with many of the victims being women.
Senior officials, including the District Collector and Superintendent of Police, rushed to the site to oversee rescue and relief efforts.
All workers present at the factory were trapped in the fire, with some bodies reportedly dismembered and scattered across the fields.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed his shock regarding the incident, communicating with district officials and urging immediate rescue and relief operations.
While visiting Vizianagaram district, the Chief Minister instructed Home Minister V. Anitha to head to the explosion site.
An official statement indicated that the Chief Minister sought information on the explosion's cause and the ongoing rescue efforts.
Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan expressed sorrow over the loss of life, extending condolences to the victims' families and promising government assistance.
The Deputy CM also communicated with the District Collector and Superintendent of Police, noting that explosions were still being reported from the factory. The injured were being transported to Kakinada for medical care.