Nine Killed in Massive Explosion at Firecracker Unit in Ahmedabad
A powerful blast at a suspected illegal firecracker manufacturing unit in Ahmedabad claimed nine lives including children while several others were injured as authorities launched an investigation into the incident.
Three children were among nine people who lost their lives after a devastating explosion ripped through a suspected illegal firecracker manufacturing unit in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, on Saturday. Several others sustained serious burn injuries and are undergoing treatment at nearby hospitals.
The incident took place on Saturday afternoon at a firecracker unit operating in an open area at Mehmoodpura in the Ramol locality. The blast triggered a massive fire, leaving the surrounding area in panic before emergency teams rushed to the scene.
Rescue personnel from the Rapid Action Force who were stationed nearby responded immediately after hearing the explosion. Firefighters soon arrived and managed to bring the flames under control, while the injured were shifted to hospitals for emergency medical care.
According to hospital officials, nine victims were taken to LG Hospital, where four were declared dead on arrival. Four more later succumbed to severe burn injuries during treatment. Three of the deceased were children who had suffered burns over most of their bodies. Six additional injured persons were admitted to Asarwa Civil Hospital, where one more victim died.
Ahmedabad Mayor Hitesh Barot and senior officials visited the accident site to review the rescue operations and directed authorities to ensure the best possible treatment for those injured in the explosion.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel expressed grief over the tragedy. Both announced financial assistance for the families of those who lost their lives as well as for the injured. Police have begun an investigation to determine the exact cause of the explosion and to verify whether the firecracker unit was operating illegally.
