Rajasthan Fire Tragedy: Seven Lives Lost in Illegal Chemical Factory Blaze

A tragic fire at an illegal firecracker-manufacturing factory in Rajasthan's Bhiwadi resulted in seven fatalities. Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma announced Rs 3 lakh aid for the victims' families, highlighting the government's support during this difficult time.

In a tragic incident, seven individuals lost their lives and two others were critically injured in an illegal firecracker factory in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan. The mishap occurred in the Khushkhera-Karoli industrial area on Monday. Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma announced financial aid of Rs 3 lakh for each family of the deceased. He expressed solidarity with the grieving families through a post on X.

Additional District Magistrate Sumitra Pareek confirmed that the factory was officially registered as a garment unit but was illegally producing firecrackers. Two individuals trapped inside were rescued and are receiving treatment at Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital. Initially, officials believed the fire originated in a chemical factory.

Investigation and Immediate Response

The police discovered the incident during a routine patrol, prompting an immediate rescue operation. Chief Minister Sharma directed district administrations to expedite relief efforts and sent Forest Minister Sanjay Sharma to Alwar. Later, Sharma visited the site and ordered a thorough investigation into the incident.

District Collector Artika Shukla, along with senior officials, arrived at the scene promptly. Shukla has initiated an inquiry into the matter. Preliminary reports indicate over 20 people were inside when the fire erupted; many escaped, but nine were trapped, resulting in seven fatalities.

Evidence Collection and Official Reactions

A forensic team collected evidence from the site, including bone samples and burnt firecrackers. CCTV footage revealed a loud explosion preceding the fire. Gunpowder, firecrackers, and packing materials were found at the factory. The bodies were severely burnt, with some reduced to skeletons.

Vice President C P Radhakrishnan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences for the victims' families and wished for the injured's recovery. Radhakrishnan shared his sorrow over the tragedy on social media, while PM Modi's office described the event as deeply saddening.

Political Reactions and Further Actions

Minister of State for Home Jawahar Singh Bedham stated that investigations into the fire's cause are underway. Congress state president Govind Singh Dotasra called for a thorough investigation into this unfortunate event. Former CM Ashok Gehlot and Leader of Opposition Tikaram Jully also offered their condolences.

The fire was controlled after more than an hour and a half. Some skeletal remains were recovered from the site. Body parts were scattered, requiring rescue teams to collect them in polythene bags. Some of the deceased workers hailed from Bihar.

Chief Minister Sharma has instructed officials to conduct checks across all industrial units in Bhiwadi to ensure compliance with safety regulations. Any violations will result in appropriate action being taken against those responsible.

With inputs from PTI