At least 23 people were killed and several others were injured after an explosion at a firecracker factory in Punjab’s Gurdaspur on Wednesday.
The incident occurred in a residential area in Gurdaspur’s Batala.
The injured were taken to the hospital for further treatment.
Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the blast.
“Deeply anguished to learn of the loss of lives due to the blast in the firecracker factory in Batala. Rescue operations are underway with the DC & SSP heading the relief efforts,” Amarinder said in a tweet.
Singh also announced an ex-gratia grant of Rs 2 lakh for the kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the seven severely injured and Rs 25,000 for those with minor injuries.
President Ram Nath Kovind expressed grief to learn about the loss of lives in an explosion.
“Saddened to learn about the loss of lives due to an explosion at a firecracker factory in Batala, Punjab. Condolences to bereaved families impacted by this tragedy and wishing an early recovery to those injured,” Kovind said.
Gurdaspur MP Sunny Deol also expressed sadness on hearing the blast news.
“Saddened to hear about the news of blast in Batala factory. NDRF teams and local administration has been rushed for rescue operation,” Deol said.
