Jaipur: A massive explosion in a firecracker factory located in the Khoh Nagoriyan area of Rajasthan’s capital Jaipur shook the entire area. Following the sudden explosions on Tuesday, a fire broke out in the factory and within no time the flames engulfed the entire complex. Three people died in the accident, while many others suffered serious burns. The injured were immediately taken to the hospital, where the condition of some is said to be very critical. The explosion was so powerful that its sound was heard in the surrounding areas and people came out of their homes.
Did the explosion shake the entire area?
Local people said that first a loud explosion was heard, then continuous explosions continued for some time. Hearing the sound, nearby people came out of their houses and shops. Many people saw the plume of smoke rising from the factory from a distance. As soon as information about the incident was received, police and fire department teams reached the spot.
Did teams have to struggle to extinguish the fire?
The fire spread rapidly due to the large quantity of firecrackers and inflammable materials kept in the factory. Fire fighters had to put in a lot of effort to control the fire. Even during the relief work, there was a possibility of small explosions from time to time. For this reason the rescue team had to take extra precautions. The fire could be controlled after several hours of efforts.
How was the relief work carried out?
The people burnt in the accident were immediately taken to SMS Hospital and other medical centres. According to doctors, the condition of some of the injured is very serious. A large part of the body of many patients has been burnt due to the fire. There was a crowd of relatives in the hospitals and people were seen worried to get information about their loved ones.
Are questions raised on license and security arrangements?
After the accident, discussion has started regarding safety arrangements in the factory. Local people say that safety standards should be strictly followed in such units. The administration is now trying to find out how much stock was present in the factory and whether all the rules were being followed during operation or not.
What was the reason for the explosion?
Police and administrative officials have inspected the spot. Initially the reason for the explosion was not clear. Officials say that the exact cause of the accident will be known only after technical investigation. At present, the administration’s full attention is on identification of the dead and treatment of the injured. After the incident, there is an atmosphere of mourning and panic in the area.
