A massive explosion at a fireworks manufacturing unit in Vetlapalem village of Samarlakota mandal in Kakinada district claimed 21 lives and left several others injured on Saturday afternoon.
The blast occurred around 2 pm at Surya Sri Fire Works unit located near the Godavari canal. Officials said 34 workers were present at the time. While 21 died in the explosion, 13 sustained serious injuries. Doctors confirmed that nine of the injured are in critical condition. Most of the deceased are believed to be women workers.
Residents said the impact was so powerful that the sound was heard up to five kilometres away. Windows and small structures in nearby areas were damaged. Thick smoke spread across five surrounding villages, creating panic.
Fire personnel rushed to the spot with two fire engines. However, rescue operations were difficult as the unit was located amid agricultural fields. Muddy paths and poor road access delayed emergency response. Explosions reportedly continued for nearly two hours.
District officials stated that the unit had a licence valid till March 31 this year. However, local residents alleged that excess stock and unsafe storage practices may have contributed to the tragedy. The unit owner is reported to be absconding.
Chandrababu Naidu reviewed the situation and later visited the accident site. He directed officials to provide immediate medical support and ensure relief measures for the affected families. The district Collector and Superintendent of Police supervised rescue and recovery efforts.
Narendra Modi expressed grief over the incident and announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund.
Several injured victims are being treated at Kakinada Government General Hospital. Authorities have registered a case and begun a detailed investigation to determine the exact cause of the explosion.
The tragedy has once again raised serious questions about safety standards and monitoring of fireworks units operating in rural areas.
