Vishakapatnam: 6 killed, 10 injured in blast at fire cracker manufacturing unit

Hyderabad: At least six persons were killed and 10 injured in a blast at a fire-cracker manufacturing unit in Gokulapadu of S Rayavaram mandal in Andhra Pradesh's Vishakapatnam district on Sunday evening.

Speaking to Deccan Chronicle from the mishap site, Superintendent of Police (Visakha Rural) Koya Praveen said, "Six people have been reported dead so far and ten injured, who have been shifted to the hospital."

"The explosion took place in licensed fire cracker manufacturing unit only and the death toll may increase. We are yet to ascertain the reasons behind the explosion. The rescue teams have gone to the spot," he said.

Sources said the mishap took place at around 5.10 pm on Sunday. The owner of the unit is missing. The blaze quickly spread to the adjoining areas, but fire engines were pressed into service which brought it under control.

The injured, mostly women, were rushed to a nearby hospital. The condition of the injured persons is said to be critical.

Narasipatnam DSP, Yesu Babu, who rushed to the spot and was monitoring relief and rescue operation, said four bodies were charred. "There was a sudden explosion at the unit and the workers died due to the impact of the blast and burn wounds," he said.

Home Minister N China Rajappa has enquired about the incident and also sought a report from K. Praveen.