Mumbai: At least eight people were killed and more than 10 others injured after a powerful explosion ripped through an allegedly illegally operating firecracker factory in Ahmedabad on Saturday, police said. The blast occurred at a unit functioning on an open ground along the Ramol-Gatrad Road, prompting a massive rescue operation.
The death toll, initially reported as two, rose to eight as rescue teams continued search and recovery efforts at the site. The injured workers were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Factory Was Operating Despite Licence Cancellation
According to Joint Commissioner of Police (JCP) Jaipal Singh Rathore, firecrackers were being manufactured in an open space when the explosion occurred.
“Firecrackers were being manufactured in an open space. Preliminary information suggests that 12 to 15 people were working at the site,” Rathore said.
Police identified the factory operator as Mehul Dodiya. Preliminary investigations revealed that the unit’s licence had already been cancelled, but manufacturing activities were allegedly continuing despite the revocation.
Police Launch Investigation
Authorities said the situation has been brought under control and the fire caused by the explosion has been completely contained.
Police said a case will be registered against those responsible under provisions related to culpable homicide not amounting to murder and relevant sections of the Explosives Act.
Teams from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) and other investigating agencies have reached the site to ascertain the exact cause of the blast and examine whether any safety norms were violated.
PM Modi Announces Ex Gratia Compensation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives in the tragedy and extended condolences to the bereaved families.
“Extremely saddened to hear about the loss of lives due to a mishap at a fireworks factory in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. My thoughts are with the bereaved families in this hour of grief,” the Prime Minister posted on X.
He also said that the local administration is extending all possible assistance to those affected by the incident.
The Prime Minister announced an ex gratia of ₹2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the next of kin of each deceased victim, while those injured in the explosion will receive ₹50,000 each.
The investigation into the incident is underway, with authorities focusing on the circumstances under which the factory continued operations despite its licence being cancelled.
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