21 killed in massive Kakinada fireworks factory blast; AP CM Naidu orders probe

Kakinada: As many as 21 people were killed and several others injured in a massive explosion at a fireworks manufacturing unit in Andhra Pradesh’s Kakinada district on Saturday afternoon.

The blast occurred around 2 pm at Surya Sri Fire Works, located near the Godavari canal in Vetlapalem under Samaralkota mandal.

Heavy flames and thick smoke engulfed the area following the explosion, triggering panic in nearby villages. The intensity of the blast was such that it was reportedly heard up to five kilometres away.

11 bodies identified, more await confirmation

Police have so far identified 11 victims among the deceased. The identified victims are Adabala Srinu, Kadimpalli Krupamma, Kadimpalli Dhanaraju, Sadhanala Satyaveni, Vatloori Ravi, Mandapalli Chinni, Nimmada Karuna, Gampala Manga, Godata Mahesh, Godata Ramu, and Godata Nani.

Authorities said identification of a few more bodies is still pending.

Explosion at fireworks manufacturing unit

The incident took place at Surya Sri Fire Works, a fireworks production facility reportedly managed by members of the Adapa Nani family.

Preliminary information suggests that excessive stockpiling or manufacturing beyond permitted limits may have led to the explosion, though the exact cause is yet to be officially confirmed.

Local residents said the explosion was so powerful that cracks developed in the slab of a private school building in a neighbouring village.

34 workers caught in fire mishap at firecracker unit; 21 dead, 13 injured

Fire department personnel rushed to the scene upon receiving information about the blaze and are attempting to douse the flames with the help of two fire engines.

At the time of the accident, a total of 34 workers were present inside the firecracker manufacturing unit. Of them, 21 lost their lives in the tragic incident, while 13 others sustained severe injuries. Doctors stated that nine of the injured are in critical condition.

Majority of victims women

According to initial information, most of the deceased are women workers. The injured have been shifted to a nearby hospital for treatment, where they are undergoing intensive medical care.

Allegations of excess production

The firecracker unit is reportedly being run by members of the Adapa Nani family. Local residents allege that the mishap occurred due to manufacturing firecrackers beyond the permitted limits, which may have triggered the explosion and subsequent fire.

Authorities are expected to conduct a detailed investigation to ascertain the exact cause of the incident.

Casualties and rescue operations

Officials confirmed that 21 people were killed in the incident, with most of the victims believed to be women workers. At least eight persons who sustained severe injuries were rushed to nearby hospitals in ambulances for treatment.

Fire department personnel rushed to the spot with two fire engines and launched efforts to douse the flames. Rescue and relief operations were ongoing at the time of filing this report.

Massive explosion triggers panic in nearby villages

Residents said a deafening sound was heard at the time of the explosion, sending shockwaves through surrounding areas. The impact left people in nearby villages terrified, while thick plumes of smoke spread across at least five villages.

By the time locals reached the site, several workers trapped inside had already been engulfed in flames. Body parts were found scattered across the accident site, and some victims were reportedly charred beyond recognition, highlighting the severity of the blast.

CM Chandrababu seeks report

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, who is currently on a tour of Vizianagaram district, sought details of the incident from officials.

He directed authorities to initiate immediate relief measures and ensure the injured receive the best possible medical care.

The Chief Minister also instructed Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha to visit the accident site and oversee the situation. She has since left for the location.

Meanwhile, the district Collector and Superintendent of Police have reached the site and are supervising rescue and relief operations. Further investigation into the cause of the explosion is underway.

YS Jagan expresses shock over Kakinada fireworks blast

Former Chief Minister and YSRCP president YS Jagan Mohan Reddy expressed deep shock over the explosion at a fireworks unit in Kakinada district that claimed several lives.

He conveyed condolences to the victims’ families, wished a speedy recovery to the injured, and urged the government to ensure the best medical care.

Jagan also demanded a thorough probe, strict enforcement of safety norms at fireworks units, and adequate compensation for the affected families.

This is a developing story