Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has pledged an ex-gratia amount of Rs 20 lakh for the families of those who perished in a devastating firecracker explosion that occurred in Kakinada on Saturday. During a visit to the Government General Hospital (GGH), he expressed deep concern regarding the negligence exhibited by local officials. Consequently, he announced the suspension of four officials during a press briefing, stressing the government’s commitment to supporting the victims and their families during this challenging time.

Casualties and Government Response

The Chief Minister commented on the unfortunate nature of the incident, reporting that twenty people had died, with nine individuals currently in critical condition. Among those affected are twelve Scheduled Castes and nine women, many of whom were engaged in daily wage labor to sustain their families. CM Naidu emphasized that the government is treating the tragedy with utmost seriousness and noted that it reflects a recurring issue, marking it as the second similar incident in recent times.

Investigation and Accountability

Naidu announced a comprehensive inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the blast, ensuring that accountability would be established. The officials suspended include the Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO), the Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), the District Labour Officer, and the Fire Officer. He highlighted that further repercussions would be enforced on other officials pending the investigation results. The Chief Minister underscored a zero-tolerance approach towards negligence, stating that individuals found responsible would face arrest and legal action, including the potential seizure of their properties for distribution to the victims’ families.

Support for Affected Families

In addition to the financial assistance of ₹20 lakh to each bereaved family, the Chief Minister mentioned that the Central Government has also announced a compensation of ₹2 lakh. The support measures extend to families experiencing significant injury as a result of the blast. Educational provisions will be made for the children of victims, allowing them to attend residential schools, while initiatives will be taken to provide housing for those who have lost their homes. Although the Chief Minister acknowledged the irreparable loss of life, he affirmed the government’s dedication to aiding the families affected.

Safety Measures and Future Prevention

Safety protocols were reportedly disregarded in the operations of the firecracker manufacturing unit, which had obtained necessary permissions but failed to implement appropriate safety measures. The Chief Minister indicated that a thorough inspection would be undertaken to identify all firecracker manufacturing units in the area, noting that current regulations are insufficient. As part of enhancing safety measures, plans to install CCTV cameras linked to control rooms are also being considered, alongside stricter permission norms for firecracker operations in the future.

Official Acknowledgment

According to Sagili Shan Mohan, Collector and District Magistrate, the incident in Vetlapalem, Kakinada district, has confirmed the tragic death toll of at least eighteen. Meanwhile, the condition of several injured individuals remains critical. CM Naidu concluded his address with prayers for the departed victims, reinforcing the need for accountability and safety in potentially hazardous industries.

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