7 killed in firecracker factory explosion in Gujarat’s Deesa, rescue operations underway

Deesa: A deadly explosion at a firecracker factory and godown on Dhunwa Road in Deesa, located in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district, has resulted in at least seven worker fatalities, with several others injured. The explosion is believed to have been caused by a boiler malfunction early in the morning. This blast ignited a significant fire, instigating.

Deesa: A deadly explosion at a firecracker factory and godown on Dhunwa Road in Deesa, located in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district, has resulted in at least seven worker fatalities, with several others injured.

The explosion is believed to have been caused by a boiler malfunction early in the morning.

This blast ignited a significant fire, instigating widespread panic as emergency responders worked to bring the flames under control and search for survivors trapped beneath the wreckage.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing multiple blasts, with the force of the explosion causing the factory’s roof to collapse, entombing several workers inside.

Firefighters from the Deesa Municipality, along with the 108 emergency services, promptly arrived at the scene, but the raging flames hampered their rescue efforts.

Initial reports indicate that a loud explosion preceded the immediate collapse of the structure, burying many workers under debris. Those injured were transported to the Civil Hospital.

“Six individuals are receiving treatment, with three suffering from severe burns over more than 40% of their bodies,” reported Neha Panchal, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Deesa.

She mentioned that authorities are still working to determine the full extent of the casualties.

The explosion occurred at Deepak Traders, a facility involved in firecracker production.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the blast was triggered by an uncontrolled ignition of highly flammable materials. The factory is owned by Khubchand Sindhi, who reportedly procured raw explosives for making fireworks.

Officials are now scrutinizing whether the factory had the necessary licenses to handle and store hazardous materials. Concerns have been raised regarding the safety protocols in place at the facility and whether it was adhering to operational regulations.

As rescue teams continue to battle the flames and recover those trapped, local officials, including the Deputy Mamlatdar and Chief Officer, have arrived at the site to supervise relief operations.

The police have cordoned off the area, and forensic experts are investigating the explosion’s cause.

As of now, officials have not confirmed how many workers were present at the time of the blast or how many managed to escape safely.