A devastating explosion occurred at a firecracker factory in Madhya Pradesh’s Dewas district on Thursday morning, rattling the region and claiming lives of several persons. The incident, as per officials, occurred in the Tonk Kalan area. As per preliminary reports and locals accounts, the blast is feared to have killed 10 people, while several others sustained grievous injuries. However, the authorities said two fatalities have been reported so far. 

MP CM Dr Yadav orders probe, announces aid

In the aftermath of the incident, MP Chief Minister (CM) Dr Mohan Yadav took to ‘X’ and expressed profound sorrow over the incident. HIs post mentioned that he had directed the district in-charge Minister and Deputy CM Jagdish Deora to reach the site along with cops and senior administrative officials to monitor the relief efforts. 

The post further read that an in-depth probe has been ordered into the cause of the explosion, and that the next kin of the deceased shall receive an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh each. Additionally, CM Dr Yadav has instructed the authorities to ensure free medical treatment for all persons who were rendered injured in the incident. 

Go through CM Dr Yadav's 'X' post below:

He (CM) also offered prayers for the department souls, and wished a speedy recovery for those injured. He also extended condolences to the bereaving families. 

Hundreds of workers were present during incident

Official sources indicated that a large number of labourers were engaged in their work at the factory when the explosion occurred. According to estimates, 200 women were employed at the facility, and the total workforce ranging between 400 to 500 people. 

In the blast’s aftermath, reports of three women missing have also emerged. Meanwhile, several workers, many of whom sustained grievous burns, were immediately rushed to the district hospital for treatment. Some of them, who appeared to be charred due to the raging blast, were seen making their way out of the factory premises on foot. 

Officials aware of the case said rescue and search operations are underway, as efforts are on to locate missing persons and assess the full scale of the catastrophe.