There was an explosion in a firecracker factory in Kakinada district of Andhra Pradesh, in which 18 people died. There was a sudden massive explosion at around 2 pm on Saturday (28 February 2026) at the Suryasree Fire Works Center located near the Godavari Canal in the Vetlapaleem area. After the explosion, a huge fire broke out and dense smoke spread in the entire area. About 20 people were working in the firecracker factory at the time of the explosion.
Fire department teams reached the spot
According to local people, the sound of the explosion was heard up to a distance of about 5 kilometers. Due to the intensity of the blast, there were cracks in the roof (slab) of a private school located in a nearby village. As soon as the information was received, the fire department team reached the spot with two fire engines and is trying to control the fire. 8 seriously injured people have been taken to the hospital via ambulance.
Chandrababu Naidu expressed grief
Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu expressed grief over this incident by posting on Instagram. He wrote, ‘Deeply shocked by the explosion incident at Banasancha Manufacturing Center located at Vetlapalem in Kakinada district. It is very sad that many people lost their lives in this accident. I have spoken to senior officials regarding this incident. Instructions have been given to provide immediate necessary assistance to the affected people. We are monitoring the relief operations.
18 dead, many in critical condition: Wangalapudi Anita
Andhra Pradesh Home Minister Vangalapudi Anita said at least 18 people were killed and six others were seriously injured in an explosion at a firecracker factory in Kakinada district. The Home Minister expressed apprehension that the number of casualties may increase. He told that many people have been admitted to hospitals in critical condition.
