2 die in explosion at illegal firecracker godown in UP

Two persons were killed and as many others were injured in an explosion at an illegal firecracker godown in Shivpur Bazar here, police said Wednesday.

The incident took place Tuesday night when the fire crackers stored behind an electronics shop in the market exploded, Superintendent of Police Gaurav Grover said.

The four injured were rushed to a hospital where Nafees (18) died. Two others were referred to the Lucknow Medical College Hospital with serious injuries where Saddam (17) succumbed to injuries, he said.

A case has been lodged in this connection and further action is being initiated, the SP said.

District Magistrate Mala Srivastava said a meeting of departments concerned has been convened for putting an effective check on illegal trade of fire crackers. She warned that stern action will be taken against those found involved in such trade.

Last week, eight people had died in an explosion at a licensed firecracker factory in Rasulpur village in Badaun district.

Following the incident, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had ordered the district magistrates and Superintendents of Police to inspect firecracker factories, transportation of firecrackers and their sale.

He had also directed them to take adequate steps to prevent accidents due to firecrackers.