ALBAWABA- A devastating explosion and fire at a firecracker manufacturing unit in Andhra Pradesh’s Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema district killed six workers and injured at least eight others on Wednesday afternoon, authorities confirmed.
The blaze erupted at the Lakshmi Ganapathi Fireworks unit in Komaripalem village of Rayavaram mandal, triggering a massive blast that caused the factory shed to collapse. Police and fire services rushed to the scene as flames spread rapidly, fueled by highly combustible chemicals stored inside the unit.
“Six workers were burnt alive after being trapped inside,” a senior police officer said, adding that two of the injured were in critical condition and were transferred to a hospital in Anaparthy.
The remaining injured were taken to nearby private facilities. Officials believe more workers may still be buried under the debris as search and rescue operations continue.
Residents in Komaripalem and nearby villages reported hearing a deafening explosion that sparked widespread panic.
Authorities suspect the incident was caused by violations of safety regulations at the unit. A case has been registered, and forensic teams are examining the site to determine the exact cause of the blast.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed shock and grief over the tragedy, directing officials to ensure the best medical care for the injured and comprehensive support for the victims’ families. “I have instructed senior officials to visit the site and oversee relief operations,” he said in a post on X.
Home Minister V. Anitha also spoke with police and fire department officials, stressing the need for strict enforcement of safety measures in hazardous industries.
The incident comes just days after two separate festival-related accidents in Madhya Pradesh left 13 people, including 10 children, dead during Durga idol immersion processions.
