Massive Explosion at Nagpur Explosives Factory Kills 16

Nagpur, March 1: At least 16 people have been killed and 18 others critically injured following a massive early-morning explosion at an explosives manufacturing unit on the outskirts of Nagpur. The blast occurred around 7:15 a.m. today at the SBL Energy Limited factory (formerly Special Blasts Limited) located in the Raulgaon area of Katol tehsil. The facility specializes in the production of industrial and mining explosives, including detonators and casting boosters.

The intensity of the explosion was so great that it was heard in several neighboring villages, and a portion of the manufacturing unit reportedly collapsed under the impact. At the time of the incident, approximately 30 workers were present at the site. Emergency response teams, including the fire brigade and Nagpur Rural Police, rushed to the scene to initiate rescue operations. Many of the injured, several of whom are reported to be women, have been shifted to government and private hospitals in Nagpur city for urgent medical care.

Superintendent of Police (Nagpur Rural) Harssh Poddar confirmed the fatalities and stated that authorities are working to identify the victims and notify their families. While the exact cause of the blast remains under investigation, preliminary reports suggest the explosion may have originated in the detonator packing or crystallization department. State officials, including District Guardian Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, have directed the administration to provide immediate assistance and have promised a high-level inquiry into the safety protocols maintained at the plant.

The state government has announced financial assistance of ₹20 lakh for the families of the deceased, while the Central government has committed ₹2 lakh in compensation. Local authorities and representatives from the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) are expected to conduct a detailed site inspection to determine if there were any lapses in industrial safety norms that led to the tragedy.