Blast in firecracker godown in Anakapalli; 4 critically injured

ANAKAPALLI: Four persons were severely injured in an explosion that occurred at an illegal firecracker godown near Chinna Yatapalem under the Aripaka Panchayat of Sabbabaram Mandal in Anakapalli District on Tuesday.

According to local people, a fire broke out in the fireworks manufacturing unit while they were involved in the house chores. With the firecrackers catching fire, it resulted in the explosion. The injured, identified as Shakar Rao, Kamalamma, Mahesh and Prasad, are said to be in critical condition.

Sabbavaram Sub Inspector Lakkoju Suresh, after pressing a fire tender into service, took stock of the situation at the spot. The police have found out that a gang, including two from Kancharapalem, was illegally manufacturing the crackers at this place. A case was registered and an investigation is underway.