Harda (Madhya Pradesh) [India], February 6 : A devastating fire erupted in an illegal firecracker factory on Magardha Road in Bairagarh village, Harda district, claiming six lives and leaving over 50 people injured on Tuesday morning. The incident unfolded at 11:30 am, causing a massive explosion that engulfed the entire area in black smoke, shattering windows of nearby houses and shops.
Taking swift action, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav directed Minister Uday Pratap Singh, DG Home Guard Arvind Kumar, and ACS Ajit Kesari to reach the site promptly. CM Yadav expressed, “Six people have died, and more than 50 people are injured in this incident. Over 50 ambulances were sent to the spot. Our minister, Uday 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.”
The Chief Minister announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh to the families of the deceased, with free treatment promised for the injured. The cause of the fire remains unknown, and authorities are actively working to ascertain the details.
Harda Collector Rishi Garg reported that the injured were admitted to Harda district hospital, and arrangements were being made to shift critically injured individuals to Bhopal and Indore for enhanced medical care. He stated, “Ambulances, doctors, and personnel of the NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) and the SDRF (State Disaster Response Force) from nearby districts have been called for the rescue operation.”
Chief Minister Yadav sought additional information about the fire from senior officials and initiated a coordinated response. He mentioned on social media, “A sad news was received about a fire at a firecracker factory in Harda. Cabinet Minister Uday Pratap Singh and senior officers are reaching the incident site. Medical colleges in Bhopal and Indore and burn units in AIIMS Bhopal have been asked to make necessary arrangements. Besides, fire brigades are also being sent from Indore and Bhopal to the spot.”
Ambulances and fire engines have been mobilized from Harda, Betul, Khandwa, and Narmadapuram to support the ongoing rescue efforts. The community is grappling with the aftermath of the tragic incident as investigations into the cause of the fire continue.
