Visakhapatnam/Delhi, 13 April (H.S.): Eight individuals were killed, and seven others were injured in a firecracker manufacturing unit explosion in Kailasapatnam village, Anakapalle district, on Sunday.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the blast occurred in the afternoon, igniting a significant stockpile of firecrackers, which quickly engulfed the facility in flames.

At the time, 15 workers were present, and the explosion caused extensive destruction.

The firecrackers were being produced in preparation for local festivals and weddings. All victims hailed from Samarlakota in Kakinada district. Emergency responders recovered the deceased, and authorities fear the death toll may rise as some victims suffered critical burns. Police are investigating the cause of the explosion and whether the unit operated legally.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed his shock and directed officials to ensure top-notch medical care for the injured.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar