5 killed, 10 injured after fire breaks out at illegal firecracker unit in Gujarat

AHMEDABAD: At least five people were killed and 10 others injured after a major fire broke out at a suspected illegal firecracker manufacturing unit on Gatrad Road near Vastral on the outskirts of Ahmedabad on Saturday afternoon. According to medical sources, four injured persons were taken to LG Hospital, while five others were shifted to Civil Hospital for treatment. The condition of the injured is yet to be ascertained. Senior Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) officials, including the municipal commissioner and mayor, reached the spot following the incident. Police said that a preliminary investigation suggested that the firecracker-making unit was operating illegally. The identities of the deceased and injured have not been confirmed so far, as authorities are still carrying out the verification process. Teams from the Ahmedabad Fire and Emergency Services (AFES) and city police are at the site, with rescue operations underway. "We first heard the sound of a massive explosion at 15:24 hours. Upon hearing this, our camp's Quick Reaction Team, along with an ambulance, a fire tender, and an alert company, responded immediately, reaching the location by 15:45 hours. During the search operation, we discovered that a significant number of people were injured, and several had already lost their lives. We found bodies and injured individuals scattered across the surrounding fields, extending up to 50 meters from the site, " Commandant officer, RAF 100, Ritul Dah said. "Our ambulance team, accompanied by a pharmacist, immediately rescued the injured and transported them to a nearby hospital; they also assisted in moving the deceased to the hospital. Civil police were informed simultaneously; personnel from the police control room and the local fire brigade arrived at the scene. We are continuing our operations in coordination with them. Regarding the casualty figures, reports received so far indicate 8 fatalities and 8 injuries. The search operation is still underway, and further details will emerge as the situation progresses," Commandant officer, Ritul Dah added. Officials are also investigating the cause of the fire. Office of the Prime Minister of India posts, "Extremely saddened to hear about the loss of lives due to a mishap at a fireworks factory in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. My thoughts are with the bereaved families in this hour of grief. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. The local administration is providing all possible assistance to those affected. An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs 50,000: PM "