A devastating explosion and fire at a godown storing firecrackers in Banaskantha district, Gujarat, claimed the lives of 21 individuals from the Harda and Dewas districts of Madhya Pradesh. The incident, which also left six others injured, resulted in the collapse of the structure, leading to further casualties. Officials confirmed that the godown was allegedly storing and manufacturing firecrackers illegally.

Intensity of the Explosion and Rescue Operations

The blast was so powerful that it sent body parts of workers flying 200-300 meters away. The impact of the explosion brought down the reinforced cement concrete (RCC) slab of the building, crushing several individuals, including family members of workers who were residing on the premises. Banaskantha District Collector Mihir Patel stated that the deceased primarily belonged to Haliya village in Harda district, Madhya Pradesh.

In response to the catastrophe, authorities dispatched seven fire teams, eight ambulances, a State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) unit, and four bulldozers for rescue operations. Superintendent of Police (SP) Akshayraj Makwana confirmed that forensic teams were deployed to determine the exact cause of the explosion.

Government Response and Financial Assistance

Following the incident, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel expressed his deep sorrow and announced financial aid of Rs 4 lakh to the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 to those injured. Similarly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his condolences and declared an ex-gratia amount of Rs 2 lakh for the deceased's next of kin.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav also mourned the loss of lives and assured continued coordination with the Gujarat government for necessary support. He dispatched Minister Nagar Singh Chauhan to oversee the rescue operations and ensure proper assistance to the affected families. Additionally, CM Yadav announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured individuals.

Legal Actions and Investigation

The godown, identified as Deepak Traders, was owned by Deepak Mohnani and his father, Khubchand Mohnani. Initial investigations suggest that they were illegally stockpiling firecrackers. The police have registered an FIR against the owners and formed five teams to probe the matter further. A special investigation team (SIT), led by a Deputy Superintendent of Police (Dy SP) level officer, has also been established to oversee the case. Several individuals have been detained for questioning in connection with the incident.

Deesa Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Neha Panchal revealed that the godown initially held a valid license for storing firecrackers. However, the permit expired on December 31, 2024, and was not renewed due to regulatory lapses. While the owners had applied for renewal, authorities withheld approval after finding that the premises lacked the necessary safety measures.

Victims from Dewas District

Among the deceased, nine workers hailed from the Dewas district in Madhya Pradesh. These individuals were identified as Lakhan Bhopa, Sunita Bhopa, Kesharbai Bhopa, Radha Bhopa, Rukma Bhopa, Abhishek Bhopa, Rakesh Bhopa, Lali Bhopa, and Kiran Bhopa. All of them belonged to Sandalpur village in Kathegaon Tehsil. Their tragic deaths have left their families in deep mourning and distress.

The explosion at the firecracker godown in Banaskantha has raised serious concerns regarding the illegal storage and manufacturing of firecrackers. The authorities have vowed to take strict action against those responsible and ensure justice for the victims. Meanwhile, rescue and relief operations continue as families mourn their irreparable loss. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers of unregulated firecracker storage and the urgent need for stringent safety measures to prevent such disasters in the future.