Barabanki: A devastating explosion ripped through a firecracker manufacturing unit in the Sarai Barai village of Barabanki district this afternoon, killing two workers and injuring five others.
According to district officials, the blast occurred during routine operations at the factory in the afternoon. The sound of the explosion was heard several kilometres away, triggering panic among nearby residents.
Local rescuers and ambulance services responded soon after, finding heavy damage and flames rising from the structure. Firefighters took several hours to bring the blaze under control.
Casualties and initial response
The Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Anurag Singh confirmed that two people were killed in the explosion. He also noted that preliminary investigations suggest negligence in the factory’s operations may have been a key factor.
Five others were seriously injured and were initially taken to a local hospital. As their conditions worsened, they were later referred to the Trauma Centre in Lucknow for advanced treatment.
Factory licence and safety concerns
The factory owner, identified as Khalid, reportedly held a valid manufacturing licence until March of this year. However, the explosion seems to have stemmed from violations of required safety standards. Both Khalid and his brother were among those injured in the blast.
District administration and local police have cordoned off the area, combing through debris to ascertain the precise cause of the explosion. Officials are assessing whether all requisite fire-safety and operational protocols were in place.
Residents of Sarai Barai village described scenes of chaos, with loud bangs, smoke and flames billowing from the factory premises. Many rushed to assist affected workers before official emergency services arrived.
The district administration has pledged strict action against any parties found responsible for negligence. Furthermore, authorities have appealed to all local firecracker manufacturing units to adhere strictly to prescribed safety norms to avert such incidents in future.