Ahmedabad: At least 17 workers were killed and several others grievously injured in a massive explosion at a firecracker factory godown at Deesa town in the Banaskantha district of Gujarat on Tuesday morning. The factory godown was located on the Dhunva Road in Deesa.
The incident comes barely a few hours after a major blast at an illegal fireworks factory in West Bengal’s South 24-Parganas district claimed eight lives. The illegal factory was located in a house at Patharpratima in the Sundarbans. One of the two owners of the factory has been arrested.
The Deesa fire was reportedly triggered by a boiler explosion within the premises. According to an official of the Deesa police station, the fire broke out around 9.30 am at the factory belonging to one Khupchand.
Several labourers were working inside when the blast occurred. Though locals and designated rescue teams rushed to the spot, the lives of 17 people could not be saved.
“The workers were trapped inside. Some of the bodies are charred beyond recognition. Rescue workers have rushed several people to hospitals, but the casualty figure is likely to rise. Many of those admitted have suffered over 60% burns. It is not known how many people managed to escape unhurt,” a local said.
The district collector reached the spot to supervise firefighting and rescue operations. Several fire brigade teams from the Deesa Municipality were engaged in fighting the blaze that caused confusion and panic. Several locals have abandoned their homes and shops, fearing more explosions.
“At least 200 rescue workers were involved in the operations. Five fire engines and as many ambulances were pressed into service. The police and local municipality have launched a probe to ascertain the exact cause of the accident. It is also being checked whether all regulations were being followed at the factory. The extent of the damage is also being assessed,” an official said.
