Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the loss of lives in a factory mishap in Anakapalli district of Andhra Pradesh. He announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF for the next of kin of each deceased and Rs. 50,000 to the injured.

Eight people lost their lives in a tragic explosion that took place on Sunday at a fireworks manufacturing facility in Kailasapatnam village, Kotavuratla Mandal of Anakapalle district in Andhra Pradesh. Four workers lost their lives at the explosion site, while four individuals succumbed to injuries en route to the hospital. Five others who sustained serious injuries are being treated at a nearby hospital. The victims have been identified as residents of Visakhapatnam, Anakapalli and Kakinada districts of Andhra Pradesh.

According to preliminary reports of the Anakapalli district police, the explosion occurred around 12:45 p.m today. Firefighters have since managed to bring the fire under control. At the time of the incident, as many as 20 workers were present in the factory.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has expressed anguish and grief on the death of six persons and directed the district administration to provide better medical care to the injured. Mr Naidu also instructed the authorities to carry out a comprehensive investigation into the matter and submit a detailed report.

Meanwhile, the Andhra Pradesh government has also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 15 lakhs for the next to the kin of each deceased and will bear the total cost of treatment for the injured.