A powerful explosion at the Ordnance Factory Khamaria in Madhya Pradeshs Jabalpur district left at least 15 injured. The incident took place on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, around 10:45 am in a refiling section of the factory, when the explosive material was being filled with bombs.

The Ordnance Factory Officials have said four workers were critically injured among the injured persons. They are in critical condition and admitted to the hospital. While one worker went missing. As per officials, he was trapped under the debris of the section in which the blast occurred.

According to the locals and eyewitnesses, the incident was major and was even heard a few kilometers away from the factory. Some thought it was an earthquake and immediately gathered outside their homes.

Meanwhile, the investigation processes have been carried out to identify the reason for the blast and locate the missing worker, who was possibly trapped in the explosion.

In the latest probe, it has been identified that the incident took place due to a hydraulic system malfunctioning during the bomb filing practice of the F-6 section, causing a powerful blast at the building.

Officials Statements

According to MN Haldar, Chief General Manager of Ordnance Factory Khamaria, A Pechora missile was being boiled out at Ordnance factory at around 10:45 explosion occurred. Among the injuries, four people have been critically injured and have been shifted to the Mahakaushal Hospital. One is critical and two are fine and will be discharged in the next 24 hours. The fourth person is still missing and we are trying to locate him.

Along with this, some people working in the adjacent building to the blast building have also been injured. About seven people have been admitted to the hospital and will be discharged after first aid, he further added.

About Ordnance Factory Khamaria

The Ordnance Factory Khamaria is known for manufacturing bombs and explosives. It is a major ammunition production unit under the Department of Defence Production in India.

It was established in 1943, during World War II to meet the ammunition needs of Allied forces.

The factory works in the following divisions:

• Ammunition Component and Engineering Division: It focuses on manufacturing hardware components for ammunition.
• Ammunition Filling Division: It handles the filing of explosives into ammunition.
• Small Arms Ammunition Division: Produces Small-Arms Ammunition.

The factory has diversified its production to meet the needs of various Indian defense services and paramilitary forces. It plays a crucial role in Indias defense manufacturing capabilities.