Hyderabad (Web Desk): A deadly explosion at a fireworks factory in Latifabad area of Hyderabad on Saturday resulted in the death of four people, with several others injured, officials said.
According to Latifabad Assistant Commissioner Saud Lund, two initial deaths were confirmed, and four to five injured individuals were taken to hospitals for treatment. Later, rescue teams recovered two more bodies from the wreckage, bringing the total death toll to four.
During a visit to the incident site, Hyderabad Mayor Kashif Ali Shoro confirmed the increase in fatalities and called for action against illegal factories. "This tragedy highlights the urgent need to crack down on unlicensed factories," he said in comments to the media.
The assistant the factory was operating illegally, with firecrackers being manufactured in a house without a license.
The blast destroyed the room where the crackers were being made, and there were reports that children were among the people working inside at the time of the explosion. "Our teams are working to retrieve any victims trapped under the debris," he said.
The explosion also triggered a fire, which caused part of the structure to collapse. Law enforcement and rescue teams arrived promptly at the scene, and the fire brigade is currently working to extinguish the flames.
Taking notice of the incident, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has sought a comprehensive report on the explosion, and an audit of safety measures at the factory has been ordered.
The CM stressed that strict action would be taken against those responsible for the blast, and negligence in ensuring the safety of workers would not be tolerated.