Bhiwadi Blast Tragedy: Bihar Laborers’ Dreams Shattered in Illegal Fireworks Factory Explosion

Bhiwadi, Rajasthan: A devastating explosion at an illegal fireworks factory in Bhiwadi has claimed the lives of seven laborers from Bihar. Drawn by the promise of a high-paying job of ₹30,000 per month, these workers had traveled nearly 1,000 kilometers from Motihari, only to perish in a blaze that turned their bodies into charred remains, now requiring DNA testing for identification.

Dreams of a Better Life Ended in Flames
The victims had started working at the factory just one and a half months ago, hoping to improve their livelihoods. Among the deceased was a young man married only ten months prior. The explosion was so powerful that it obliterated the workers’ bodies, leaving identification possible only through DNA and dental analysis.

Unsafe Conditions and Massive Stock of Explosives
Investigations revealed shocking negligence and unsafe working conditions. Workers testified that 16 laborers were handling explosives—10 kilograms of gunpowder and chemicals each—on separate tables. Adjacent rooms contained hundreds of kilograms of additional explosives. The ignition triggered a series of three massive blasts, collapsing walls and shattering glass. Although registered as a “readymade garments” factory on paper, the site was actually producing fireworks illegally.

Owners on the Run, Manager in Custody
Following a complaint by the brother of one of the victims, Rajkishore, the police filed an FIR against the factory owner Rajendra Kumar, Hemant Sharma, manager Abhinandan, and contractor Ajit under charges of culpable homicide. Rajendra Kumar reportedly fled immediately after the incident, switching off his mobile phone, while police teams have been dispatched to Uttar Pradesh in search of him. Manager Abhinandan has been taken into custody for questioning.

Forensic Identification Underway
SP Manish Kumar of Kherthal confirmed that the Forensic Science Laboratory team collected samples from the site. Due to the severe charring, victims will be identified through DNA and dental records to ensure accurate confirmation of their identities.