Explosion at ammunition depot in Maharashtra; 20 dead

Pulgaon (Maharashtra), May 31: Seventeen army personnel, including two officials, were killed in a massive fire that broke out a military ammunition depot in Pulgaon in Wardha district of Maharashtra early on Tuesday. [CAD Pulgaon had won award for using solar energy to dispose ammunition]

Around 19 people were also injured in the fire which is still raging. Most of the deceased belonged to the Defence Security Corps.

Around 1,000 people were also evacuated from a nearby village following the incident.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the deaths and prayed for the recovery of the injured. He also asked Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar to visit the spot and take stock of the situation.

I pray that those who are injured recover quickly. Have asked RM @manoharparrikar to visit the spot & take stock of the situation.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 31, 2016

Pained by loss of lives caused by a fire at central ammunition depot in Pulgaon, Maharashtra. My thoughts are with the bereaved families.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 31, 2016

Secondary fire and explosions were still not ruled out.

Besides being one of largest Army ammunition depots, Central Ammunition Depot Pulgaon also disposes off ammunition which has expired.

Oneindia News