Kaushambi: A massive blast occurred at a firecracker factory in Kaushambi district of Uttar Pradesh on Sunday, killing at least eight people and injuring several others. The incident took place in Bharwari town of Kokhraj police station area, where the factory was located.
According to eyewitnesses, the blast was so powerful that it shook the nearby buildings and shattered the windows. The fire spread rapidly and engulfed the factory, causing more explosions. Many fire engines were rushed to the spot to douse the flames and rescue the trapped workers.
So far, 10 people have been pulled out from the debris and rushed to the hospital, where their condition is said to be critical. About eight more people are feared to be still buried under the rubble. The rescue operation is underway and the authorities are trying to ascertain the cause of the blast.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed his grief over the loss of lives and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each to the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 each to the injured. He also ordered a high-level inquiry into the incident and directed the officials to provide all possible assistance to the victims and their families. He said that strict action would be taken against those responsible for the negligence and violation of safety norms.
