Nagpur Factory Explosion: 17 dead, 18 critical after massive blast at explosives manufacturing unit - DETAILS

At least 17 people were killed and 18 others were critically injured after a powerful explosion at an industrial unit in Nagpur on Sunday, triggering an emergency response from local authorities. Officials said rescue operations were started immediately as search teams tried to determine whether more workers were trapped under the debris following the deadly blast.

The explosion occurred at the factory premises of SBL Energy Limited in Raulgaon village of Katol. The company is involved in manufacturing mining and industrial explosives used in industrial operations. Police sources described the blast as extremely intense, causing severe structural damage to the plant building and nearby sections of the facility.

Following the incident, emergency teams were deployed quickly to manage the situation. Personnel from National Disaster Response Force and State Disaster Response Force conducted detailed search operations amid the rubble. Medical teams shifted the injured workers to nearby hospitals where several of them were reported to be in critical condition.

Senior administrative and police officials, including Vipin Itankar and Harssh Podar, reached the location shortly after the explosion to supervise rescue work and coordinate emergency measures. Authorities also inspected the surrounding area to ensure that there was no immediate danger to neighbouring structures.

Devendra Fadnavis termed the blast extremely tragic and announced that a detailed investigation would be conducted to determine the cause of the accident. He said the state government was maintaining close coordination with district officials to ensure proper medical treatment and assistance for the affected families.

Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives and offered condolences to the families of the victims. The Prime Minister announced compensation of Rs 2 lakh each for the families of the deceased and Rs 50000 for the injured, which will be provided through the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund. Authorities have launched a comprehensive probe to examine safety protocols and determine how the explosion occurred.