Bhiwadi Firecracker Factory Blast Raises Serious Questions on Administrative Oversight

Alwar, Rajasthan: A devastating explosion at an illegal firecracker factory in the Khushkhera industrial area of Bhiwadi has claimed the lives of over half a dozen workers and left the community in shock. The factory, officially registered for ready-made goods, was reportedly being used to manufacture firecrackers without proper authorization.

The explosion occurred around 10 AM on Monday. The factory owner had leased the premises to tenants who were illegally producing firecrackers using gunpowder and cardboard, which accelerated the spread of the fire. By 1 PM, authorities confirmed seven fatalities, and fears remain that two workers may still be trapped inside.

Chaos and Emergency Response

Eyewitnesses reported multiple blasts during the fire, which could be heard from a considerable distance. Workers from nearby factories evacuated immediately, and the area was temporarily cut off from electricity as a safety precaution. Six fire engines battled the blaze for hours before bringing it under control. The factory, located at Plot G-1, 118 in the industrial zone, was reportedly closed for several months prior to the incident. Fire chief Raju Khan stated that smoke was first spotted around 10 AM, and the fire quickly escalated.

Victims from UP and Bihar

ADDM Sumitra Mishra confirmed that the first response came from patrolling police, who alerted the fire brigade. Seven bodies have been recovered so far, all of whom are believed to be migrant workers from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Search operations continue for two more individuals feared trapped inside.

Accountability Under Scrutiny

The incident has raised serious concerns about administrative oversight. How an illegal firecracker factory operated for months in a supposedly closed unit without detection has prompted demands for a thorough investigation. Alwar District Collector and Acting Khairthal District Collector, Artika Shukla, visited the site, where local residents raised questions about administrative negligence. Both the factory owner and manager have been summoned, and strict action is expected following a detailed inquiry.

Legal Implications

Under Indian law, manufacturing, storing, or selling firecrackers without a valid license is illegal and punishable by heavy fines and imprisonment. Factories must operate in designated industrial zones with proper NOCs from the state government and local authorities, including the collector’s office, police, fire department, and pollution control board. Separate licenses are required for production, storage, and sale of firecrackers, and non-compliance can lead to factory closure, arrest, and jail.

The Bhiwadi explosion has once again highlighted the urgent need for strict enforcement of safety regulations and closer monitoring of industrial activities.