Eight workers lost their lives, and seven others sustained injuries in a massive explosion at an ordnance factory in Maharashtra’s Bhandara district on Friday morning. The blast, which occurred around 10:30 am in the LTP section of the factory located in the Jawahar Nagar area, caused a roof collapse, trapping several workers under the debris.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari confirmed the casualties during a public address, stating, “A tragic incident has occurred at the ordnance factory in Bhandara. Eight workers have died, and seven others are injured. Let us observe a minute of silence to pay tribute to the victims.”
The explosion’s intensity was so severe that it was reportedly heard up to 5 km away. Videos from the scene captured thick plumes of smoke rising from the factory premises. Rescue teams, along with firefighters and medical staff, rushed to the spot. Using heavy machinery, including excavators, three workers were rescued alive, while eight were found dead.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed his condolences, saying, “I extend my heartfelt tributes to the deceased and pray for the quick recovery of those injured. The government will ensure all necessary support to the affected families.”
Rescue operations are still underway, and authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the explosion. This incident has sparked concerns over safety protocols in high-risk industrial facilities, prompting calls for stricter regulations.