Two women die, Five hurt as lightning strikes fireworks unit in East Godavari
Vijayawada: Two women lost their lives and five others were injured when lightning struck a licensed fireworks manufacturing unit in Suryaraopalem village of Undrajavaram mandal, East Godavari, at around 5:00 pm on Wednesday.
Kovvur DSP G. Deva Kumar reported that the village had been experiencing rainfall and lightning in the evening. The fireworks unit, owned by V. Rama Sivaji, was producing ‘flowerpots’ and ‘Matabulu’ with a workforce of approximately 18.
Lightning struck a nearby coconut tree, igniting it and spreading flames to a makeshift shed beneath, where fireworks materials were stored. The resulting explosion led to the deaths of V. Srivalli, 42, wife of the unit’s owner, and G. Suneetha, 35, on the spot. Five others were injured and taken to Asram Hospital in Eluru, while the deceased were moved to the government hospital in Tanuku. Most workers escaped to nearby fields to evade the fire and explosion.
A case has been registered, and an investigation is underway. Minister for Tourism Kandula Durgesh expressed deep sorrow over the fatalities and directed officials to provide full support to those affected.
