A devastating fire at a licensed fireworks manufacturing unit has claimed eight lives and left several others injured in Anakapalli district of Andhra Pradesh on Sunday afternoon.
The tragic incident occurred around 1 PM at a factory in Kailasapatnam village under Kotauratla mandal, where approximately fifteen workers were present when the blaze erupted. Among the deceased are two women, according to Home Minister Anitha who confirmed the death toll to PTI.
"Eight people, including two women, died and several others were injured in the fire accident," the Home Minister stated.
Emergency responders rushed the injured to Narsipatnam hospital for treatment, as reported by IANS. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined.
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu expressed shock over the incident and has ordered an immediate investigation. In a post on social media platform X, Naidu directed authorities to ensure enhanced medical services for the injured victims. The Chief Minister has also voiced concerns that the death toll could potentially rise as rescue and recovery operations continue.
Disturbing visuals from the explosion site have emerged online, showing the extent of the destruction caused by the fire.
