Jaipur: At least eight people were killed and several others injured after a massive fire broke out at a firecracker factory in Jaipur’s Kho Nagorian area on Tuesday, police said.
The blaze triggered a series of explosions as the factory had a large stockpile of gunpowder and finished firecrackers, making rescue operations difficult. Several workers were trapped inside the building following the fire.
Police, fire department teams and ambulances rushed to the spot after receiving information. Rescue teams, with the help of local residents, broke parts of the structure to reach those trapped inside.
The injured were shifted to Sawai Man Singh Hospital, where some of them are undergoing treatment in critical condition.
The deceased have been identified as Mohammad Ashraf (40), Mohammad Rabil (16), Abdul Wahid (46), Sameer Khan (20), Bilal (28), Azim (18) and Nasir Khan (25), officials said. The identity of one more victim is yet to be confirmed.
Preliminary investigation suggests that the fire may have been caused by a short circuit or possible negligence in the storage of explosive materials. Authorities have launched a detailed probe into the incident.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma expressed grief over the deaths and directed officials to ensure the best possible medical treatment for the injured and provide assistance to the families of the victims.
