Batala firecracker factory explosion: Over 16 killed, 50 feared trapped
In a tragic incident, a massive fire erupted at a firecracker factory in Batala, Gurdaspur district of Punjab on Wednesday. According to reports, at least 16 people were killed and many others are either injured or feared trapped after the explosion. Fire tenders have reached the spot and all efforts are on to douse the inferno. Here are more details.
Over 50 feared trapped under debris
According to The Tribune, the firecrackers were intended to be used on Guru Nanak Dev's marriage anniversary Thursday. Reportedly, following the explosion, a large crowd gathered at the scene which hindered with rescue operations. Furthermore, at least 50 people are also feared to be trapped under the debris of the firecracker factory, NDTV reported. However, there are no official figures to confirm the same.
Here's a video from the scene
Ambulances, fire tenders from Gurdaspur, Amritsar rush to spot
Over a dozen fire tenders from Gurdaspur and Amritsar are trying to douse the flames, according to The Times of India. Ambulances are also being rushed to the spot to treat the injured, The Tribune reported. Reportedly, the Deputy Commissioner of Gurdaspur, Vipul Ujwal, and Senior Superintendent of Police Upinderjit Singh Ghuman have also reached the spot along with 100 policemen.
Deeply anguished over the loss of lives: Punjab CM
Shortly after the news of the explosion was reported, the Chief Minister of Punjab, Amarinder Singh, expressed his anguish over the grim incident. The CM tweeted, "Deeply anguished to learn of the loss of lives due to the blast in the firecracker factory in Batala. Rescue operations are underway with the DC & SSP heading the relief efforts."
