In Andhra Pradesh, a massive explosion was reported at a fireworks manufacturing unit in Vetlapalem village of Kakinada district yesterday. Most of the victims were daily wage workers who had gone to the unit to earn their livelihood. Preliminary investigations revealed that safety regulations were not followed while handling explosive materials, despite the unit having the required permissions. Officials said permission was granted to employ only eight workers, but as many as 31 people were reportedly working when the explosion occurred. The blast is suspected to have been caused by negligence and failure to follow safety norms. 

 

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu along with Home Minister V. Anitha visited the accident site and reviewed the situation with district officials. He later met the injured at the Government General Hospital in Kakinada and assured full support to the victims’ families. The Chief Minister announced an ex gratia of 20 lakh rupees each to the families of the deceased, while the Central government will provide two lakh rupees. The State will bear the entire cost of treatment. 

 

Children from affected families will be admitted to residential schools and houses will be built for the homeless. Four officials, including the RDO, DSP, District Labour Officer and Fire Officer, were suspended. Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan also visited the injured and warned that strict action would be taken against those responsible.