Tragic explosion in fireworks factory claims five lives

A tragic explosion at a firecracker factory in Sirauli district killed five people, including two children aged four and five. The explosion, first reported on Wednesday, raised the death toll to five after bodies were recovered from the rubble late at night.

Following this, Senior Superintendent of Police Anurag Arya took swift action and suspended four police officers, including sub-inspectors and constables, while ordering an inquiry against a district official for possible negligence. The official at the local station house was also removed.

The explosion, which police believe was accidental, even caused damage to neighboring buildings. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has expressed his condolences and called for effective treatment of the injured as rescue operations continue with the support of the State Disaster Response Force.

(With contributions from agencies.)