5 dead, several injured in blast at cracker manufacturing unit in UP

In Prayagraj, a devastating explosion at a firecracker manufacturing unit left at least 11 people dead and five others injured on Monday. The blast occurred near the Prayagraj-Kaushambi border in the Pipri police station area, close to the Manori power house. Emergency services, including police, fire brigade, and personnel from the Manori Air Force Station, swiftly responded to the scene, launching a joint rescue operation.

The impact of the explosion extended beyond the factory, causing significant damage to structures within a 2km radius. Locals reported that several houses were destroyed, and numerous windows were shattered. Debris from the blast was scattered across the area, causing further damage and disruption.

Preliminary reports suggest that the firecracker manufacturing unit was operating out of a house situated some distance from the main settlement. Witnesses recounted that a fire initially broke out inside the unit, leading to a chain reaction of explosions as stored firecrackers detonated one after another. The continuous blasts made it challenging for rescue personnel to reach the site at first.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing smoke emerging from the house before a series of explosions followed, with the force of the blasts felt across a wide area.

The continued explosions damaged nearby houses and shattered glass windows, with parts of the structure and debris thrown over a broad area. Authorities imposed restrictions on the movement of people around the site to ensure the safety of residents and rescue personnel. Rescue and relief operations continued as authorities assessed the full extent of the damage.