Maharashtra: Eight killed in blast at ordnance factory in Bhandara; rescue efforts underway

As many as eight people were killed in ordnance factory blast in Maharashtra's Bhandara district. A blast occurred at the factory and rescue efforts are underway, an official said. Rescue and medical teams have been deployed for survivors at the scene, a defence spokesperson said.

District collector Sanjay Kolte said the explosion occurred around 10.30 am on the premises.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis took to X and said that five people had been rescued.


"There are reports that 13 to 14 workers were trapped after the roof collapsed in an ordnance factory explosion in Bhandara district. Five of them have been safely evacuated. The District Collector and Superintendent of Police are at the scene and all kinds of assistance are being provided," he wrote.


Fadnavis added that SDRF and Nagpur Municipal Corporation teams were also called to the spot.

"SDRF and Nagpur Municipal Corporation teams have also been called for rescue operations and they will reach soon. The district administration is involved in the rescue operations in coordination with the defense forces. Teams have also been kept ready for medical assistance. According to the preliminary information received so far, unfortunately one worker has died in this incident. I pay my heartfelt tributes to him. We share the grief of his family. I pray to God for the speedy recovery of the injured," he said.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari offered condolences to those who lost their lives and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.

"It is unfortunate that a worker died and several others were trapped after a roof collapsed due to an explosion at an ordinance factory in Bhandara district. My condolences to the deceased worker. My condolences are with his family. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured," said Gadkari in a post on X.