Maharashtra: At Least Six Feared Dead in Massive Explosion at Ordnance Factory near Nagpur; Rescue Operations Underway

At least six people are feared dead following a massive explosion at an ordnance factory near Nagpur on Friday. The blast occurred around 10:30 AM at the factory in Bhandara district, Maharashtra. Rescue operations are currently underway, with medical teams and firefighters working to locate survivors. The explosion caused severe damage, including the collapse of the factory roof, trapping several workers underneath.

District Collector Sanjay Kolte confirmed the incident, stating that rescue teams, including firefighters and ambulances, have been deployed to the site. "The explosion at the Ordnance Factory in Bhandara occurred this morning. Rescue and medical teams are on-site, and the search for survivors is ongoing," authorities said in a statement.

According to Kolte, at least 12 people were trapped under the debris after the roof collapsed. So far, two people have been rescued, and an excavator is being used to clear the rubble in hopes of finding others. "The rescue operation is ongoing, and efforts are focused on removing the debris safely," Kolte added.

The blast was so intense that it could be heard from as far as five kilometers away. Thick smoke was seen rising from the factory, captured in videos taken from a distance. The explosion has left the area in shock, and authorities continue to assess the situation.

In response to the incident, Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole criticized the Modi government, calling it a failure to prevent such incidents.​