Massive explosion at Kakinada fireworks factory kills over 20

At least 21 people were killed and several others injured on Feb 28 when a massive explosion ripped through a firecracker manufacturing unit in Vetlapalem village of Kakinada district in Andhra Pradesh.

The Surya Fireworks facility, where around 35–40 workers were mixing explosive materials, was engulfed in flames following the blast that occurred around 2 pm, officials said.

State authorities confirmed that most of the victims were women working at the unit. At least six others suffered serious burn injuries and have been taken to hospitals for treatment.

Rescue teams, including several fire engines, were deployed to control the blaze and recover bodies from the site. District officials said they were trying to identify the charred remains of those killed, as many were beyond recognition.

The blast was so powerful that smoke spread to nearby villages, prompting concern among residents. Local emergency services and medical personnel have been mobilised, and injured victims are being transferred to medical facilities in Kakinada for specialised care.

Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, who was on a trip in Vizianagaram district, spoke with senior officials to inquire about the incident and relief efforts. He ordered a detailed investigation into the causes of the explosion.

State ministers, including the Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha, have visited the scene to supervise rescue efforts and ensure medical support is available.

Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan expressed deep shock over the tragedy and extended condolences to the families of the deceased. Authorities are working to shift critical patients for better treatment and provide support to affected families.

Officials have also instructed regular inspections of fireworks manufacturing units to prevent similar accidents in the future, highlighting long-standing safety concerns in the industry.

The exact cause of the explosion remains under investigation, and further updates are expected as authorities piece together the sequence of events that led to one of the worst industrial accidents in the district in recent years.