A powerful explosion at a fireworks factory in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh has killed 11 people, including 8 children and 3 adults, with several others injured and numerous homes destroyed. The incident occurred on Monday and is the third blast at a fireworks factory in the country this month.
According to local police, the youngest victim was just 4 years old. Several injured people have been taken to hospitals for treatment.
Videos circulating on social media showed the aftermath of the blast, with many nearby homes completely flattened, while other images showed survivors covered in dust and rubble. Rescue teams, using excavators and with help from residents using stones and basic tools, searched for victims under the debris.
The cause of the explosion has not been immediately determined. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed officials to go to the site to ensure treatment for the injured and provide timely assistance to affected families.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed on social media that he is "deeply saddened by the loss of lives" and pledged compensation for families of the deceased and the injured.
India's fireworks industry employs hundreds of thousands of workers, and the country is among the world's largest producers. However, according to the International Labour Organization (ILO), many factories operate in homes, lack safety measures, and employ child labor.
