One killed in explosion while making Diwali firecrackers in Odisha’s Ganjam

A major explosion late Sunday night claimed one life in the Khallikote area of Ganjam district when a man was reportedly preparing firecrackers illegally for Diwali celebrations.

The incident took place in Kaithada village under Khallikote police limits. The deceased has been identified as Pintu Palei, a resident of the same village.

According to preliminary reports, Palei was engaged in assembling firecrackers inside his house when the explosives suddenly went off with a powerful blast. The explosion was so intense that his hands and legs were blown off. Locals rushed to the scene after hearing a loud noise and found him severely injured and unconscious.

Victim Died On The Way To Hospital`

Sources reported that after being rescued, Pintu was immediately shifted in a 108 ambulance to the Khallikote Community Health Centre (CHC). However, doctors at the hospital declared him dead on arrival.

Police said the explosion occurred around midnight on Sunday while the victim was mixing or filling chemicals used in firecrackers without a valid licence.

Eyewitnesses described the scene as horrific, with parts of the roof and walls damaged due to the blast’s impact. Villagers reported that several people nearby ran out of their homes fearing a larger explosion, though no one else was injured.

ALSO READ: Firecracker shops catch fire in Ganjam ahead of Diwali

Police Launch Investigation Into Illegal Activity

Khallikote Police reached the site soon after the incident and initiated an investigation. The body was sent for post-mortem, and a case has been registered.

Officials are verifying where the explosives and raw materials were sourced from. The police have also warned residents against preparing or storing fireworks illegally, especially ahead of Diwali.

Sources said unlicensed firecracker manufacturing continues in some rural areas despite strict safety regulations under the Explosives Act. To tighten inspections in this regard, Odisha Police is conducting a statewide inspection drive under ‘Operation Agni,’ scheduled to continue until October 24.