A devastating explosion at an ordnance factory in Bhandara district, near Nagpur, has resulted in the tragic deaths of eight workers and injuries to seven others. The incident occurred this morning, prompting immediate response from emergency services.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari confirmed the fatalities during an event later in the day, expressing condolences for the victims. “In Bhandara, at the ordnance factory, a major mishap has taken place, resulting in the death of eight people and injuries to seven others. This is preliminary information,” he stated, urging those present to observe a minute of silence in honor of the deceased.
The blast struck the LTP section of the factory around 10:30 AM, according to District Collector Sanjay Kolte. Firefighters and medical personnel quickly mobilized to the scene to manage the situation and assist those trapped.
Reports indicate that the explosion caused the roof of the facility to collapse, trapping more than a dozen workers inside. Initial rescue efforts led to three survivors being pulled from the rubble, while one individual was unfortunately found deceased. An excavator was deployed to remove debris and facilitate further rescues.
The force of the blast was so intense that it was audible from a distance of five kilometers, with thick smoke billowing from the factory, as captured in footage from nearby areas.
In response to the disaster, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis assured that senior officials were on-site and that rescue teams from Nagpur were en route. He also confirmed that medical teams were prepared to provide assistance as needed.
