Chandrababu Naidu Announces ₹20 Lakh Ex-Gratia For Blast Victims
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹20 lakh to the next of kin of each person killed in a devastating firecracker unit explosion near Kakinada, and ordered the suspension of four district officials in connection with the tragedy. The blast, one of the deadliest in the State’s recent history, has prompted a high-level government response.
Naidu Announces Ex-Gratia For Blast Victims
Chief Minister Naidu said the State government will provide ₹20 lakh ex-gratia compensation to the families of each deceased victim to help them cope with the loss. He also assured that injured persons would receive financial support and medical care as needed. Naidu visited the site of the blast to oversee relief efforts and expressed solidarity with the victims’ families.
As part of the immediate response, the government has ordered an inquiry into the circumstances that led to the explosion at the firecracker unit in Vetlapalem village, which claimed multiple lives and left others injured.
Suspension Of Officials Over Safety Lapses
Naidu directed the suspension of four senior district officials, including the Revenue Divisional Officer, District Labour Officer, District Fire Officer and a senior police officer. The suspensions are intended to hold officials accountable for alleged lapses in enforcing safety regulations at the manufacturing unit.
The Chief Minister warned that further action would be taken if investigations reveal negligence or regulatory violations contributed to the disaster.
Government Orders Probe And Enforcement Action
The Andhra Pradesh government has ordered a detailed investigation into the blast to determine its cause and to prevent similar incidents in future. Authorities said they will also examine licensing, storage and safety compliance at firecracker manufacturing units across the region.
Naidu emphasised that strict enforcement of safety norms is essential to protect workers and local communities amid industrial operations.
