A powerful blast at an illegal firecracker factory near Fatuhiwala and Singhewala villages in the Lambi area early Friday morning left five people dead and 29 injured. The explosion happened around 1 am, causing part of the two-storey building to collapse and trapping nearly 40 workers under the debris. Most of the workers were migrant labourers.
One of the workers, Arun Kumar, shared, “We had just gone to sleep after finishing our night shift when suddenly a loud blast shook everything. Many of us were stuck under the rubble. Some new workers had just joined recently.”
Rescue teams, including police and volunteers from local NGOs, quickly reached the spot. The rescue operation was still ongoing at the time of this report. Forensic teams were also on their way to help identify the cause of the explosion, which is still unknown.
Police have confirmed the factory was operating without permission. The owner, Tarsem Singh, is reportedly a supporter of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).
Sub-Inspector Karamjit Kaur, SHO of Killianwali police station, said, “We have confirmed five deaths and 29 injuries. A case is being registered.”
Deputy Commissioner Abhijeet Kaplish said the top priority was to treat the injured and strict action would be taken against those responsible. “The factory had no permission to operate,” he said.
Senior police officer SSP Akhil Chaudhary also visited the site and assured a full investigation.
The injured have been taken to several hospitals, including AIIMS Bathinda.
Political leaders reacted strongly to the incident. SAD chief Sukhbir Badal called for a detailed investigation and demanded compensation for the victims’ families.
Punjab’s Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian, who is also the MLA from Lambi, said, “This is a very unfortunate incident. Being a supporter of any party does not give anyone the right to break the law. Strict action will be taken. I am heading to the site now to meet the injured.”
Authorities have assured that the guilty will not be spared.
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