16 dead in massive explosion at Gurdaspur firecracker factory; several feared trapped

Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, Sep 04, 2019 : At least 16 people died while several others are still feared to be trapped inside a building after a massive explosion took place at a cracker factory in Punjab’s Gurdaspur on Wednesday, Zee reported.

 

Several fire engines are currently at the spot carrying out the recue work to bring the situation under the control. Ten nearby buildings were also damaged in the explosion. The cause of the blast is still unknown.

Several others have been injured in the blast while few others are still believed to be trapped inside the rubble.

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh took to Twitter and expressed his grief, writing, "Deeply anguished to learn of the loss of lives due to the blast in the firecracker factory in Batala. Rescue operations are underway with the DC & SSP heading the relief efforts."

Punjab Revenue and Rehabilitation Minister Gurpreet Singh Kangar expressed his grief on the incident and loss of lives and assured of government’s immediate action.

Newly-elected Gurdaspur MP and actor Sunny Deol also took to social media and condoled the tragedy as he wrote, "Saddened to hear about the news of blast in Batala factory.NDRF teams and local administration has been rushed for rescue operation."