At least two people were killed and four were injured after a powerful explosion occurred in a fireworks factory in Hyderabad on Saturday, according to officials.
A statement from the Rescue 1122 spokesperson said: “A powerful explosion was reported in a firecracker factory on the banks of the Laghari Goth river, Latifabad Police Station B Section limits,” adding that a fire subsequently broke out in the factory.“
Talking to the media, Latifabad Assistant Commissioner Saud Lund said: “I am monitoring the operation myself so there are two deaths and we have sent four to five injured to hospitals.”
He said the explosives were being illegally manufactured in a house without a licence. “We can only tell you the actual position once the rescue operation is complete. There is rubble from one room that collapsed with the boundary wall, so there are reports of some people and children who were working there so we are trying to get them out.”
Hyderabad Senior Superintendent of Police Adeel Chandio told Dawn that the details of the factory’s licence were being verified.
The Rescue 1122 spokesperson said that a fire and rescue team, along with an ambulance and a fire brigade truck, were dispatched to the scene as soon as the information was received. The statement further noted that the department was currently conducting rescue and firefighting operations.
This is a developing story that is being updated as the situation evolves. Initial reports in the media can sometimes be inaccurate. We will strive to ensure timeliness and accuracy by relying on credible sources, such as concerned, qualified authorities and our staff reporters.
