A deadly explosion tore through a fireworks manufacturing unit in Andhra Pradesh’s Anakapalli district on Sunday, killing at least eight workers, including two women, and leaving seven others injured, officials confirmed.

The blast occurred around 12:45 PM, triggering a massive fire that engulfed the facility and severely hampered early rescue operations. Emergency teams rushed to the scene, battling flames as they attempted to recover bodies and assist the wounded.

State Home Minister V. Anitha, who confirmed the death toll, said, “Eight people, including two women, died, and seven others were injured in the fire accident.” The injured are being treated at nearby hospitals, while rescue personnel continue to search the charred remains of the factory for any further victims.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed deep sorrow over the incident and directed authorities to ensure the best medical treatment for those injured. He instructed Home Minister Anitha to personally supervise relief efforts on the ground and provide comprehensive support to the victims’ families.

Meanwhile, former Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy also conveyed condolences, urging the government to extend full assistance and instructing YSR Congress Party leaders to visit the site to stand in solidarity with the affected families.

The Anakapalli tragedy comes on the heels of another recent firecracker factory explosion in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district, which claimed seven lives. Both incidents have reignited debate over unsafe practices in India’s largely unregulated fireworks industry.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of Sunday’s explosion. Preliminary reports suggest possible lapses in safety protocols, though official findings are yet to be released.

As calls for tighter regulatory oversight intensify, labor activists and community leaders are demanding urgent reforms to prevent further loss of life in this high-risk sector. (ILKHA)