Seven Killed, 63 Injured in Firecracker Factory Explosion in MP’s Harda Town

GG News Bureau
Bhopal/Harda, 6th Feb. In a devastating incident on Tuesday, seven individuals lost their lives and 63 others sustained injuries following an explosion that ignited a blaze at a firecrackers factory in Harda town. Harda Collector Rishi Garg said that more individuals were feared to be trapped in and around the vicinity of the unit.

The explosion rocked the Bairagarh locality on Magardha road, situated on the outskirts of Harda town, approximately 150 km from the state capital, Bhopal. Videos circulating on social media captured the chaotic scene, depicting the raging fire and intermittent explosions, prompting frantic attempts by people to flee to safety.

Efforts to contain the blaze are underway, as confirmed by local officials, who are working tirelessly to manage the situation and ensure the safety of those affected.

Reacting promptly, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav convened a meeting to address the emergency, announcing plans to engage the Army for helicopter assistance in rescue operations. “The incident has been reported to the Centre, and we are mobilizing all resources to respond effectively,” stated CM Yadav.

The state government has pledged financial assistance of Rs 4 lakh to the families of each deceased individual, with the entire cost of medical treatment for the injured to be covered by the government.

CM Yadav further directed senior officials, including Uday Pratap Singh, Additional Chief Secretary Ajit Kesari, and Director General Home Guard Arvind Kumar, to expedite their presence in Harda to oversee relief efforts.

Hospitals in Indore, Bhopal, and the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) have been instructed to make necessary arrangements to accommodate the injured.

The Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) emphasized the urgency of providing immediate medical aid to the injured, with ambulances being dispatched from surrounding areas and the Army being contacted for additional support.

In a coordinated response, 14 doctors have been deployed to Harda from nearby locations, with reinforcements in the form of ambulances and fire tenders en route from various urban bodies and institutions.

The entire state stands in solidarity with the victims of this tragic incident, as authorities work tirelessly to mitigate the impact and provide support to those affected by this unforeseen calamity.