ALBAWABA- A massive explosion at a firecracker warehouse in Deesa, Gujarat’s Banaskantha district, has killed at least 22 people and injured five others.
The blast occurred at a facility owned by Deepak Traders in the Deesa GIDC industrial area, which was reportedly operating without approval from the Banaskantha Police or the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization (PESO).
The explosion triggered a fire, leading to the collapse of the factory-cum-warehouse's roof. Authorities have recovered body parts from the debris as rescue operations continue.
The injured are receiving treatment at government hospitals in Deesa and Palanpur.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences and announced an ex gratia payment of ₹2 lakh, approximately ($ 2400) for the families of the deceased.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has also pledged compensation for the victims.
