INDIA, Feb 7: In a devastating incident, at least 11 individuals have lost their lives and numerous others have sustained injuries in a massive explosion at an illegal firecracker factory located in the Harda district of Madhya Pradesh. The explosion, which occurred at a factory situated on Magardha road in Bairagarh village of Harda, sent shockwaves throughout the region, with its impact felt in a radius of 15 kilometers.

Reports indicate that the force of the blast shattered glass windows and triggered a stampede, exacerbating the chaos and confusion in the immediate aftermath. Rescue operations are currently underway, with authorities mobilizing efforts to assist the injured and contain the situation.

Abdul Raees Khan, the charge of the Harda Kotwali police station, provided insights into the grim reality of the situation, stating, "These are the people who had died mainly of stampede after the blast, we are yet to reach the actual blast site as fire is on and fire-fighters are working to douse the fire,"

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav swiftly responded to the tragedy, dispatching over 50 ambulances to the scene and announcing a compensation of Rs 4 lakh for the families of the deceased. "Our minister Ranvendra Pratap Singh, DG Home, and around 400 police officials have left for the spot. We are trying to control the fire and provide immediate assistance to the injured. We will provide Rs 4 lakh to the families of the deceased and the injured will be given free treatment," he stated.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences for the lives lost and announced immediate relief measures, including an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from the PM's National Relief Fund for the next of kin of each deceased individual. Additionally, PM Modi announced Rs 50,000 for those injured in the tragic incident.

As the nation mourns the loss of lives and grapples with the aftermath of this tragic event, efforts continue to ascertain the cause of the explosion and provide support to the affected families and communities.