A devastating explosion at Jabalpur’s Ordnance Factory has left 15 workers injured, with many in serious condition, and one worker still unaccounted for.
15 Injured in Major Blast at Jabalpur Factory
On Tuesday, a significant explosion occurred at the Ordnance Factory in Khamaria, located in Madhya Pradesh’s Jabalpur. The factory, known for manufacturing explosives and bombs, witnessed the blast at its Central Security Institute. At least 15 individuals were harmed, with officials confirming that two of them were critically injured.
Emergency Response and Missing Worker
Two of the critically injured workers were immediately transported to a private hospital nearby for emergency medical care. According to a report from PTI, the explosion reportedly took place in the factory’s refilling section. Despite the quick response, one worker remains unaccounted for, with concerns that they may be trapped beneath the rubble. Firefighters and ambulances were dispatched to the scene quickly, and rescue efforts are ongoing.
Casualty Reports Still Unconfirmed
According to a live update, out of the 15 injured workers, two are feared to have succumbed to their injuries. However, the factory administration has not yet confirmed any fatalities resulting from the incident. Official verification is still awaited.
Hydraulic System Malfunction Behind the Blast
Preliminary reports indicate that a malfunction in the hydraulic system caused the blast during the bomb refilling process in the F-6 section of the factory’s building 200, as reported by NDTV. The explosion was so intense that it could be heard up to five kilometres away, causing a tremor-like effect in nearby residential areas. Residents described the impact as similar to an earthquake due to the strength of the explosion.
Structural Damage and Injuries
The force of the explosion was so powerful that part of the factory building collapsed, injuring multiple workers in the process. The collapse contributed to the severity of the injuries sustained by the workers, making rescue operations even more challenging.
Ordnance Factory Khamaria: A Key Ammunition Unit
The Ordnance Factory in Khamaria is one of the prominent units under the Department of Defence Production, responsible for producing ammunition and explosives. It plays a crucial role in India’s defence manufacturing sector, making the incident particularly significant.
Investigation Ordered into the Incident
A formal investigation has been ordered to determine the exact cause of the explosion. Senior officials rushed to the site to assess the situation, but the factory has yet to release an official statement. The inquiry will reveal more details once it is completed, shedding light on the safety protocols and potential errors that led to this tragic event.
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