Four killed in blast at firecracker factory in Bihar’s Siwan, rescue operation underway

New Delhi: Four people died after a powerful explosion at a house used to manufacture firecrackers in Bihar’s Siwan district on Friday evening, police said. The blast occurred in Alampur village under Jamo police station in Barharia block.

Superintendent of Police Bharat Soni said police received information about the explosion at 5.20 pm. Villagers told officials that seven family members were inside the house at the time. Authorities sought information about the others as rescue teams searched the site. Reports identified the house as belonging to 72-year-old Amruddin Mian and said the four deceased were members of his family.

Repeated blasts hamper rescue

The explosion caused panic in the village. Residents rushed out of their homes, and a crowd gathered near the house. Locals tried to help before administrative and emergency teams reached the scene. Sadar Sub-Divisional Officer Ashutosh Kumar Gupta confirmed that rescuers had recovered four bodies. He said teams continued their search for others.

Soni said intermittent explosions at the site hampered relief and rescue efforts. Police cordoned off the area and urged residents to stay approximately 200 metres away to reduce the risk of further casualties.

Emergency teams reach site

The district magistrate, superintendent of police, Sadar SDO and sub-divisional police officer reached the village after receiving reports of the blast.Police, fire brigade, medical and electricity teams were deployed at the scene. A health department team led by the Civil Surgeon also arrived to provide medical assistance. Officials supervised the operation as rescuers worked cautiously because of the threat of further explosions.

Police to verify licence

Soni said a forensic science laboratory team had reached the site to collect samples and investigate the explosion. Police would register an FIR and examine the source of the firecrackers, along with whether the family held a valid manufacturing licence, he said.

Villagers claimed the family had a licence and had made firecrackers for about 20 years. Police will verify those claims. Soni said officials had instructed the circle officer and station house officer to check licences. He added that authorities would take action against anyone found responsible for negligence or lapses during the investigation.