8 dead, over a dozen trapped as roof of Bhandara ordnance factory collapses in blast, rescue ops underway

At least eight persons were killed and about 14 workers are feared trapped as the roof of the ordnance factory in Maharashtra's Bhandara collapsed in a blast on Friday. Search and rescue operations are underway at the site.

The high-intensity blast occurred around 10.30am in the LTP section of the factory and it was even heard 5km away. State Disaster Rescue Force, police, fire personnel and medical services were rushed to the spot and rescue operations are underway at the site, authorities said. Earthmovers have been deployed to clear debris as the roof of the factory collapsed in the blast. As per initial reports, five persons have been rescued.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condoled the death of workers in the incident and said higher officials including the district SP and district collector are coordinating rescue efforts on the spot.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari condoled the incident and offered silent prayers for the deceased during an event at Nagpur. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed grief over the incident and said rescue efforts are on. “Deeply saddened to know about the blast at Ordnance Factory, Bhandara, Maharashtra. My condolences to the bereaved families. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. The rescue teams are deployed at the site. All efforts are being made to provide assistance to those who are affected,” Singh tweeted.

The opposition slammed the ruling BJP for the blast and said the blast occurred due to the “failure” of the Modi government.