Pulgaon in Wardha district of Maharashtra woke up to a massive fire followed by a series of explosions at its Central Ammunition Depot in the wee hours of Tuesday.
Local eyewitnesses said that there were multiple explosions after the blaze due to unknown reasons at the defense depot around 1.30 am on Tuesday.
The death toll has reportedly risen to 20, leaving 19 army officials injured.
The area has been condoned off and nobody is being allowed to enter the premises. Sources reported residents of villages in the vicinity have been evacuated and Army helicopters deployed at service to aide in the evacuation of the injured security personnel.
Among the deceased, 15 were Defence Security Corps (DSC) and two officers. And, 17 jawans and two officers are injured, in which some are critical.
The shed, which was set ablaze is the main site of inferno, has been doused and attempts are being made to bring the situation under control.
The extent of damage to assets of defence and the exact figure of fatalities is being ascertained, even as an inquiry has been initiated to zero down to the reason of fire, said the official on a request of anonymity.
However, secondary fire and explosions has not been ruled out and precautions are being taken to control the fire.
PM Narendra Modi said he was pained by loss of lives in the fire and has asked Defense Minister Manohar Parrikar to take a stock of the situation by being at the spot.
He also took to Twitter, saying, “Pained by loss of lives caused by a fire at Central Ammunition Depot in Pulgaon, Maharashtra. My thoughts are with the bereaved families.”
State CM Devendra Fadnavis said: “It’s an unfortunate incident, we are providing whatever assistance and resources required, primarily medical assistance. He added, ‘according to my info, fire is now under control.’
Tags: Central Ammunition Depot Pulgaon Wardha Wardga fire Wardha
