President condoles loss of lives in army depot blasts

President Pranab Mukherjee on Wednesday condoled the kin of those killed in the massive fire and explosions at the army's Central Ammunition Depot in Pulgaon, in Wardha district of Maharashtra.

In a message to Maharashtra Governor C. Vidyasagar Rao, the President said: "I understand rescue as well as relief operations are currently underway. My thoughts and prayers are with the injured and the families who have lost their near and dear ones."

"I call upon the state government and other authorities to provide all possible aid to the bereaved families as well as medical assistance to the injured."

"Convey my heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. I wish speedy recovery to the injured persons," he added.

The toll in one of the worst peace-time devastations in army depots climbed to 18 on Wednesday with the bodies of two more persons recovered, while One person is reported missing in the tragedy.

--IANS

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