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Andhra Firecracker Factory Blast Kills 20; Kharge Demands Probe & Compensation

A massive explosion at a firecracker manufacturing unit in Andhra Pradesh's Kakinada district has killed at least 20 people, with many victims reported to be women. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge expressed anguish and called for a thorough investigation and adequate compensation for the victims. The blast's impact was severe, with bodies thrown into fields and explosions heard from five kilometers away, damaging nearby buildings. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan have expressed shock and are overseeing rescue and relief operations.

Key Points: Andhra Factory Blast Kills 20, Congress Demands Probe

  • 20 killed in factory blast
  • Congress demands probe & compensation
  • Victims mostly women
  • Explosions heard 5 km away
  • Senior officials supervise rescue
2 min read

Kharge condoles Andhra factory blast deaths; demands probe and compensation

At least 20 dead in Andhra Pradesh firecracker factory explosion. Congress President Kharge demands investigation and compensation for victims.

"Deeply anguished by the explosion in a factory at Kakinada district of Andhra Pradesh. - Mallikarjun Kharge"

New Delhi, Feb 28

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday expressed anguish over the explosion at a firecracker manufacturing unit in Andhra Pradesh's Kakinada district that left at least 20 people dead.

In a post on X, Kharge said he was "deeply anguished" by the tragedy and extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.

"Deeply anguished by the explosion in a factory at Kakinada district of Andhra Pradesh," he wrote, urging the state government to ensure immediate and adequate compensation to the victims.

He called for a thorough investigation into the incident and said those responsible must be brought to book.

The explosion occurred around 2 p.m. at Suryashri Fireworks near the Godavari canal in Vetlapalem village of Samarlakota mandal, police said.

Labour Minister Vamsetti Subhash confirmed that 20 people had died and termed the incident unfortunate. Fifteen others were injured and shifted to hospitals. Most of the victims are reported to be women.

The impact of the blast was severe, with bodies thrown into adjoining agricultural fields. Explosions were heard up to five km away, residents said.

Windows of nearby houses were shattered and cracks developed in the slab of a school building.

Fire personnel rushed to the spot with two engines and were engaged in dousing operations along with police and other departments. The District Collector, Superintendent of Police and other senior officials supervised rescue and relief work.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed shock and directed officials to intensify rescue efforts.

According to an official release, the Chief Minister enquired from officials about the cause of the explosion and the rescue operation undertaken by local authorities.​

Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan expressed grief over the deaths in the explosion. He conveyed his condolences to the families of the deceased and assured them that the government would extend them all possible help.​

The Deputy CM spoke to the District Collector and SP. He informed that explosions were still being heard from the unit. The injured were being shifted to Kakinada for treatment.​

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Absolutely tragic. The blast was heard 5 km away! It shows how dangerous these units are, especially when located near villages and schools. Why are such hazardous industries allowed so close to residential areas? Our safety regulations need a complete overhaul.
R
Rahul R
While Kharge ji's condolences are appropriate, it's the government's action that matters now. Naidu sir and Pawan Kalyan ji must ensure a swift investigation and substantial aid. 20 families have been destroyed. This isn't just a news item; it's a massive failure of oversight.
A
Aman W
Deepest condolences to the families. These incidents keep happening every year, especially around festival seasons when production is rushed. When will we learn? Strict licensing, regular safety audits, and proper training for workers are non-negotiable.
J
Jessica F
The human cost is devastating. My thoughts are with the injured and the families of the deceased. I hope the compensation is substantial and delivered quickly. The focus should be on supporting the victims, not political point-scoring.
K
Karthik V
Respectfully, while condolences from all leaders are expected, we need more than words. The report says explosions were still being heard. This indicates massive stockpiling of material. Who gave the license? Who ignored safety norms? The probe must name and shame the officials responsible too, not just the factory owner.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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