At least five people were killed and 10 others injured after a blast followed by a fire at a firecracker manufacturing unit in the Ramol area of Ahmedabad, Gujarat, on Saturday. Authorities suspect the factory was operating illegally, and an investigation has been launched into the incident.
The explosion occurred at New Fire Works, located on Ramol-Gatrad Road near Vastral on the outskirts of Ahmedabad. According to police, the unit was allegedly operated by Mehul Dodiya. Officials are also examining claims that the factory's licence had been cancelled previously but that operations continued despite the cancellation.
Fire brigade personnel, police teams and emergency medical services rushed to the scene after the incident was reported. Firefighters brought the blaze under control and rescued the injured, who were taken to Ahmedabad Civil Hospital and LG Hospital for treatment.
Police are investigating the cause of the explosion and are examining whether firecrackers or explosive materials were being manufactured or stored in violation of licence conditions and safety regulations.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel expressed grief over the incident and announced an ex gratia payment of ₹4 lakh to the families of each deceased victim and ₹50,000 to each injured person. In a post on X, Patel described the incident as "extremely heartbreaking" and said the state administration had been directed to ensure proper medical treatment and assistance for those affected.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condoled the loss of lives and extended his sympathies to the bereaved families. In a statement, he said the local administration was providing all possible assistance to those affected and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
The Prime Minister further announced an ex gratia of ₹2 lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the next of kin of each deceased and ₹50,000 for each injured person.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the blast and the factory's operations is ongoing.
Sources: Hindustan Times
