NEW DELHI: At least 11 people were killed and around 60 others sustained injuries when a massive explosion ripped through a fireworks factory situated in the Bairagarh area of Harda district, Madhya Pradesh, India on Tuesday morning. Authorities fear that the death toll may rise as rescue efforts continue.
Eyewitnesses recounted the horrifying scene as flames and smoke billowed from the factory, their visibility extending over several kilometers. The force of the explosion was so intense that it reverberated throughout the surrounding vicinity, leaving residents in shock and disbelief.
Explosion at Fireworks Factory in Madhya Pradesh
The State Disaster Response Force, along with police personnel, mobilized to evacuate the injured and transport them to nearby medical facilities. Harda Deputy Commissioner Rishi Garg confirmed that the injured have been admitted to local hospitals, with some in critical condition.
Heartbreakingly, among those affected by the tragedy are women and children. Initial reports suggested that the factory employed a large number of workforce, estimated to be between 200 to 300 people.
The incident underscores a grim reality in India, where explosions in illegal firecracker factories are not uncommon. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressed deep sorrow over the incident, labeling it as “very sad news.” He assured that all necessary measures are being taken to assist the victims, including deploying additional ambulances to the site and preparing burn units in nearby hospitals.
