At least seven people were killed and several others injured in an explosion in Bihar's East Champaran district on Friday evening.
The incident happened at a brick kiln in Ramgarhwa area in Motihari, the police said.
Owner of brick kiln among deceased
Among those killed was the owner of the brick kiln, Mohd Ishrar, police said.
"The District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police have rushed to the spot. The rescue operation is also on," said a statement issued by the Bihar Police headquarters.
Those injured were admitted to a nearby government hospital, a senior police officer said. Several fire tenders were working at the site, he said.
PM Modi, CM Nitish Kumar send condolence messages
Expressing sorrow over the deaths, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said may the almighty give strength to the affected families to bear the loss of lives.
He directed officials to ensure that all injured persons get good treatment.
PM Modi expressed pain at the loss of lives and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakhs from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund to the next of kin of each deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured.
"Pained by the loss of lives due to a mishap at a brick kiln in Motihari. Condolences to the bereaved families. Prayers with the injured. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM @narendramodi," the Prime Minister's Office said in tweet.
(with agency inputs)
