Daijiworld Media Network - Deoband
Deoband, Apr 26: A catastrophic explosion rocked an illegal firecracker factory in Uttar Pradesh’s Deoband area on Saturday morning, resulting in several fatalities and leaving many trapped under debris. Nine workers were reportedly inside the factory when the blast occurred, sending body parts scattered as far as 200 metres from the site.
Eyewitnesses described grisly scenes, with severed body parts found far from the site, including half of a person’s body and a severed palm discovered 150 metres away. Rescue operations are ongoing, and the area has been cordoned off by police.
The factory, operating illegally on a small one-bigha plot near National Highway-59, was completely flattened by the blast. Distressed local residents and the victims' families gathered at the site, some protesting angrily at the authorities.
The explosion, which reverberated for miles, highlighted the persistent issue of illegal firecracker manufacturing in the region. This incident adds to a grim history, as a similar tragedy occurred in May 2022, when an explosion in Sarsawa claimed three lives.
Despite repeated incidents, illegal firecracker factories continue to operate with impunity. Authorities are now under heavy scrutiny for their failure to prevent such accidents. While the exact death toll remains uncertain, reports suggest at least three fatalities.
The police have confirmed an ongoing investigation and vowed action against those responsible for running the illegal unit.