At least 11 people were killed and five injured after a massive fire triggered multiple explosions at a firecracker factory in Kaushambi, Uttar Pradesh. Rescue teams continue search operations as authorities investigate the tragedy and announce compensation for victims.
At least 11 people were killed and five others injured after a massive fire triggered a series of powerful explosions at a firecracker factory in Manouri Bazaar under Pipri police station limits in Uttar Pradesh’s Kaushambi district on Monday, officials said.
The explosions caused extensive damage to the firecracker unit and nearby structures, triggering panic among residents in the area. District authorities immediately launched rescue and relief operations as concerns grew that additional people could still be trapped beneath the debris.
District Magistrate Amit Pal Sharma said rescue operations were continuing at the site, with personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) deployed to assist local administration and police teams. The authorities have been working to clear the debris and locate anyone who may remain trapped.
According to the district administration, 11 deaths have been confirmed so far, while five injured people are undergoing treatment at Swaroop Rani Nehru (SRN) Hospital in Prayagraj. Officials said medical assistance has been arranged for anyone who is recovered during the ongoing search and rescue operation.
Several structures near the factory were reportedly damaged or collapsed following the explosions, increasing the challenges faced by rescue personnel. Administrative and police teams cordoned off the affected area to prevent further risks and facilitate rescue operations.
Authorities have also warned that the number of casualties could rise if more victims are found beneath the rubble. Search, clearance and relief operations remain underway as emergency teams continue examining the damaged premises and surrounding structures.
District Magistrate Amit Pal Sharma assured that strict action would be taken against those found responsible for the incident. He said criminal cases would be registered under serious sections of the law and that stringent measures, including property attachment, would be initiated in accordance with government directives.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and directed officials to accelerate rescue operations. He instructed the administration to ensure proper and timely medical treatment for all injured victims and provide every possible assistance to families affected by the tragedy.
The Chief Minister also announced an ex gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh each to the families of those killed and Rs 50,000 each to the injured. He prayed for peace for the deceased and wished for the speedy recovery of those receiving treatment.
Local residents played an important role during the initial rescue efforts. Villagers rushed towards the affected area after hearing the explosions and helped pull people from beneath the debris. Some injured victims, including people suffering from burn injuries, were carried on makeshift stretchers to the roadside before ambulances transported them to SRN Hospital in Prayagraj.
A child is reported to be among those critically injured. Several residents of nearby houses were also reportedly hurt as the explosions affected structures in the surrounding area.
Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya also expressed grief over the tragedy, describing the loss of several members of a single family as particularly heartbreaking. He directed hospital authorities to provide the best possible treatment to the injured and emphasised that saving lives remained the government’s immediate priority.
The aftermath of the incident presented a devastating scene, with relatives searching desperately through the rubble for missing family members. Others gathered at hospitals seeking information about loved ones affected by the explosions.
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The administration continues to monitor the rescue operation while police and other agencies work to establish the circumstances that led to the fire and subsequent explosions. Further details are expected as the search operation progresses and authorities conduct a detailed investigation into the incident.
