NewzVille Desk
At least 22 people were killed and 6 injured in the explosion at a firecracker factory in Banaskantha, Gujarat today, according to the Indian Express. Some people were feared to be trapped under the debris after the collapse.
Law & Justice Minister of Gujarat Rushikesh Patel informed the media that the district administration undertook a rescue operation immediately after the incident. Five injured people were rescued and are being treated at hospitals in Palanpur and Deesa.
Workers mostly from the neighboring state of Madhya Pradesh, have lost their lives. The Minister also said that the factory’s license had not been renewed, yet firecrackers were still stored there.
He assured everyone that the government is taking strict action against those responsible for the incident, and two individuals have been arrested so far.
Meanwhile Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the loss of lives in the explosion. He announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF for the next of kin of each deceased and Rs. 50,000 to the injured.
The Prime Minister’s Office handle in post on X said:
“Deeply saddened by the loss of lives in the explosion at a firecracker factory in Banaskantha, Gujarat. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is assisting those affected.
An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM @narendramodi”
Deeply saddened by the loss of lives in the explosion at a firecracker factory in Banaskantha, Gujarat. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is assisting those affected.
An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would…
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 1, 2025
Chief Minister of Gujarat Bhupendra Patel also expressed grief over the incident and announced financial assistance of Rs 4 lakh to the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 to the injured persons.
