Overview

• The explosion struck the Lakshmi Ganapathi/Sri Ganapati Grand Fireworks unit in Komaripalem, Rayavaram, around midday, with authorities verifying the identities of the deceased and checking the site for any trapped workers.
• Several workers sustained burns and were taken to hospitals in Anaparthi, Rajahmundry and Kakinada for treatment.
• Officials said the shed collapsed and highly inflammable materials fueled a fast-spreading blaze that complicated firefighting and rescue efforts.
• Police registered a case and launched a detailed inquiry, Superintendent of Police Rahul Meena confirmed the unit had a valid licence, and Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu directed senior officials to the site and called for better medical care for the injured.
• Authorities noted recent inspections at the unit, some reports cited earlier warnings to the facility, and the East Godavari administration has temporarily halted fireworks manufacturing for fresh safety checks.