1 killed, 6 injured in blast at Chhattisgarh’s largest explosives factory

• Image Credit: Google

• May 25, 2024 | Guriya Khatun

District Magistrate Ranbir Sharma confirmed that six individuals sustained injuries and have received medical attention. 

Digital Desk: A fatal explosion rocked an explosives factory in Chhattisgarh's Bemetara, resulting in the death of one person and injuries to six others. The factory, known as the largest gunpowder-producing facility in the state, suffered the blast at its location in Borsi village, according to an official statement. In response, two teams of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) were dispatched from the neighbouring districts of Durg and Raipur, with another team en route from Rajnandgoan. Approximately 10 to 12 fire trucks are currently on-site to extinguish the flames.

Efforts to locate individuals reportedly missing in the rubble are underway. Bemetara Superintendent of Police Ramkrishna Sahu assured the public that the situation is contained, with SDRF and expert teams present and gathering details. He mentioned that around 5-6 individuals have been transported to hospitals for treatment. District Magistrate Ranbir Sharma confirmed that six individuals sustained injuries and have received medical attention. However, the exact number of casualties remains unconfirmed pending further investigation into the cause of the explosion.

The injured have been transferred to Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Memorial Hospital in Raipur, where Dr. Shivam Patel, an Assistant Professor, reported that seven patients were admitted, one of whom was deceased upon arrival. The remaining patients are currently stable and receiving treatment.

Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao visited the explosion site and announced the initiation of an inquiry, promising strict actions against those responsible. Additionally, he assured financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh to the family of the deceased.