A massive explosion at an ordnance factory in Maharashtra’s Bhandara district claimed the lives of at least eight workers and injured seven others on Friday morning. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari confirmed the tragic incident shortly after the blast. The explosion occurred at 10 am in the RK Branch section of the factory located in Jawahar Nagar.
Initial reports suggest that a roof collapsed following the blast, trapping workers inside. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that 14 workers were present in the affected unit at the time.
Rescue Efforts Underway
Firefighters, ambulances, and rescue teams were immediately dispatched to the site. According to district officials, two individuals have been rescued so far, while efforts are ongoing to locate and assist others trapped beneath the debris.
“A roof has collapsed which is being removed with the help of JCB machines. Rescue operations are currently underway,” a district official told a news agency.

The ordnance factory explosion occurred at 10 am in the RK Branch section of the factory located in Jawahar Nagar. (Source: Social Media)
The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), fire department personnel, police, and administrative officers are actively working at the scene.
ALSO READ: Blade, stones inserted in her private parts, autorickshaw driver held for raping 20-year-old woman in Mumbai
Cause of Explosion Under Investigation
Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the explosion. An investigation has been launched to uncover the reasons behind the blast.
Speaking about the ordnance factory blast, Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole criticized the central government, calling the explosion “a failure of the Modi government.”
This incident has raised concerns about safety protocols at defense manufacturing facilities. While such factories play a critical role in national security, ensuring worker safety remains a pressing priority.
The ordnance factory blast has left families and the community in shock. The injured have been rushed to nearby hospitals, where they are receiving medical care.
ALSO READ: ‘Doubted if he had been stabbed…’: BJP leader’s comment on Saif Ali Khan sparks row
With rescue operations in full swing, the priority remains on saving lives and providing immediate assistance to those affected. Further updates are expected as officials continue their investigation.