Madhya Pradesh factory blast: Shockwaves shatter windows across 15 km, many dead, dozens injured

A giant blast at an illegal firecracker factory in Harda district of Madhya Pradesh has left dozens of people feared trapped in and around the unit. The incident has resulted in the death of at least 8 out of the 80 individuals who have been sent to the hospital so far. According to Abdul Raees Khan, the incharge of the Harda Kotwali police station, the deceased individuals primarily died due to the stampede that occurred after the blast. The actual blast site is yet to be reached as the fire is still ongoing and firefighters are working to extinguish it.

The factory, located on Magardha road in Bairagarh village, experienced an extremely intense blast that caused windows to shatter within a 15-km radius. The blast also generated shock waves, resulting in casualties and a stampede. Rescue operations are currently underway.

Videos circulating on social media show the fire engulfing the site with intermittent explosions, while people desperately try to save themselves.


As per reports, around 200 to 300 people worked at the factory, but it was not known how many were inside at the time of the explosion.

"At least 10 buildings around the complex where the blast happened have been damaged because of the intensity of the explosion


Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav immediately contacted the relevant officials to gather more information about the incident. In addition, he instructed Minister Uday Pratap Singh, Additional Chief Secretary Ajit Kesari, and Director General Home Guard Arvind Kumar to travel to Harda by helicopter.

The burn units at hospitals in Indore, Bhopal, and the state capital's AIIMS were instructed to make the necessary arrangements for any emergencies that may arise. Fire brigades from Indore and Bhopal were also dispatched to the scene to combat the blaze.

The chief minister has called a meeting in relation to this incident.

(Inputs from agencies)