Investigation Underway After Deadly Blast at Vetlapalem Firecracker Unit

A blast at the Sri Surya firecracker unit in Vetlapalem village, Kakinada district, on February 28 has resulted in 24 deaths, including workers who succumbed to injuries after the incident. The explosion occurred amid intensified production to meet a March 3 deadline, with excessive explosive materials stored on-site. Authorities have arrested two accused owners and formed a committee to investigate the cause, with a report expected within 30 days. Several survivors remain hospitalized, some in critical condition.