18-12-2023 (MUMBAI) At least nine workers lost their lives, and several others sustained injuries in an explosion at an explosives factory in Nagpur, a central district in Maharashtra, on Sunday morning (Dec 17). The tragic event unfolded at a factory operated by Solar Industries India, a prominent manufacturer of industrial and military explosives, propellants, and warheads for India’s defence sector.
The blast occurred early on Sunday, and local police officer Salve, who was part of the team responding to the incident, confirmed the casualties over a phone conversation with Reuters. The injured workers were swiftly transported to nearby hospitals, with Salve expressing concern that the casualty count could potentially rise.
The explosion took place in the packing area of the factory, and authorities are actively investigating the cause of the incident. The nature of the materials being handled in the packing area, known for their sensitivity, adds complexity to the ongoing investigation.
Solar Industries India, acknowledging the tragic event, released a statement to the stock exchange confirming the loss of nine lives. The company expressed its commitment to thoroughly investigate the incident, determine its causes, and identify corrective and preventive measures to be implemented.
The explosives factory, a critical component of India’s defence sector supply chain, plays a vital role in producing materials essential for industrial and military applications. The incident has raised concerns about safety protocols and the potential risks associated with manufacturing such sensitive products.
