Jaipur: Seven people, including a child, were killed and one worker suffered severe burn injuries after a fire broke out at a firecracker warehouse in Jaipur’s Kho Nagoriyan area on Tuesday morning.
The fire started around 11 am at a building near ITI College in Ayesha Nagar Talai. Officials said the premises were being used to store firecrackers and related materials. The blaze quickly spread through the structure, trapping workers inside.
According to authorities, the dead include Abdul Wahid (50), Bilal Khan (30), Sameer (20), Azim Khan alias Avid and Rabil. Two victims are yet to be identified. Nasir, who suffered critical burn injuries, is undergoing treatment at the burn ward of SMS Hospital.
Dr RK Jain, a plastic surgeon at SMS Hospital, said Nasir has suffered about 95 per cent burns and remains under medical care.
Jaipur Collector Sandesh Nayak said preliminary findings suggest that a highly combustible material triggered the fire. A detailed investigation has been ordered to determine the exact cause.
Police Commissioner Sachin Mittal said the site appeared to be a warehouse used for storing firecrackers, while the manufacturing unit was located elsewhere. He confirmed that the warehouse was operating illegally in a residential area and said action would be taken against those responsible.
Police officials identified the property owner as Yakub. According to investigators, the building had been rented to Firoz, a resident of Delhi, who was allegedly running the operation along with an associate identified as Wasim.
Witnesses said several workers managed to run out of the building after the fire started but collapsed on the road with severe burn injuries while waiting for help. Local residents and volunteers attempted rescue efforts before emergency teams arrived.
The incident has triggered political reactions. Kishanpole MLA Amin Kagzi questioned how an alleged firecracker warehouse could operate in a densely populated neighbourhood without the knowledge of authorities. He accused officials of failing to act despite the risks posed to local residents.
The police have sealed the premises, while forensic experts and district officials are examining the site. Authorities are also seeking reports from local revenue officials regarding the status of the colony where the warehouse was operating.
The state government has ordered relief and rescue measures, while injured victims continue to receive treatment in hospital. Investigators are expected to examine possible violations of safety regulations, licensing rules and fire safety norms.
“The warehouse was operating illegally in a residential area. Action will be taken against all those found responsible,” Police Commissioner Sachin Mittal said.
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