Muktsar Factory Blast News : 5 Dead, 29 Injured in Illegal Firecracker Factory Blast

Muktsar Factory Blast News: In a horrifying incident that unfolded in the early hours of Friday, five people lost their lives and 29 others sustained injuries after a powerful blast ripped through an illegal firecracker factory near Fatuhiwala and Singhewala villages in Punjab’s Muktsar district. The explosion occurred around 1 am on the Singhewala-Kotli Road, completely shaking the area and sparking chaos among the workers, many of whom were asleep at the time.

Eyewitnesses and survivors described a terrifying scene. Arun Kumar, a labourer at the site, recalled, “We had just gone to sleep after our night shift when the blast happened. Everything collapsed. Many of us were buried under the rubble. There were new workers who had joined just recently. It was terrifying.”

The explosion was so intense that it partially brought down the two-storey structure, trapping nearly 40 workers — primarily migrant labourers — under debris. Rescue operations were launched immediately, with police teams, medical personnel, and local NGO volunteers rushing to the spot. At the time of reporting, rescue efforts were still ongoing.

Authorities have confirmed that the firecracker unit was operating without legal permission. Deputy Commissioner Abhijeet Kaplish stated that although an application had been submitted under the Explosives Rules, 2008, clearance was still pending from multiple departments. “The factory had not received formal approval. Our first priority is to ensure the injured get the best treatment. Strict legal action will be taken against those responsible,” he assured.

The owner of the factory, Tarsem Singh of Singhewala village, is reportedly associated with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). However, officials have made it clear that political affiliation will not protect anyone from the consequences of illegal actions. Muktsar SSP Akhil Chaudhary confirmed that a detailed investigation is underway, while forensic teams have also been deployed to determine the exact cause of the explosion.

Sub-Inspector Karamjit Kaur, SHO of Killianwali police station, confirmed the casualties and injuries and mentioned that an FIR is being registered. The injured have been shifted to various hospitals, including AIIMS Bathinda, for urgent medical care.

Reacting to the tragedy, SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal demanded a comprehensive probe and immediate compensation for the victims’ families. Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian, the MLA from Lambi, condemned the incident and reiterated that no illegal activity, regardless of political support, would be tolerated. “This is a heartbreaking incident. I am on my way to the site to meet the victims and their families. The law will take its course,” he stated.

The Muktsar tragedy stands as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by illegal firecracker manufacturing units operating without proper safety standards and oversight. As the affected families grapple with loss and trauma, public outcry for justice and stringent action continues to grow.