A massive explosion ripped through the Suryashri fireworks factory (also referred to as Surya Sri Fireworks or Surya Fire Works) in Vetlapalem village, Samarlakota mandal, Kakinada district, Andhra Pradesh, claiming at least 21 lives and leaving several others injured in a tragic industrial accident on Saturday afternoon.
The devastating fireworks factory Blast in Samarlakota occurred around 2:00 PM near the Godavari canal, where workers were reportedly mixing explosive materials to produce firecrackers. Sources indicate that 35–40 workers, many of them women, were present at the site during the incident. The blast was so intense that it flung bodies into adjacent paddy fields, scattered debris across the area, and triggered a massive fire that engulfed the unit.
Devastating Blast Shakes Rural Andhra Pradesh
On February 28, 2026, a powerful Blast in Suryashri fireworks factory in Vetlapalem village sent shockwaves through the local community and beyond. The factory, situated amid agricultural fields near the Godavari canal, was actively engaged in firecracker production when the tragedy struck around 2:00 PM. Eyewitnesses described a deafening roar that echoed up to 5 kilometers away, cracking the roof of a nearby private school and enveloping the surrounding area in thick, choking smoke.
Local residents reported that the blast’s force was immense, hurling human remains and structural debris into paddy fields, making immediate rescue efforts challenging. The unit, reportedly owned by the family of Adapa Noni (also spelled Aadapa Nani or linked to Adabala family members in some reports), had been set up in farmland, which complicated access for emergency vehicles. Narrow paths and agricultural terrain delayed the arrival of aid, with two fire tenders eventually reaching the site to battle the raging flames.
Casualties and Identification Efforts
Initial reports varied as rescue operations unfolded, with death toll estimates ranging from 18 to 21. As per the latest updates from officials and local sources, at least 21 people lost their lives in the fireworks factory Blast in Samarlakota. Many victims were charred beyond immediate recognition due to the intensity of the fire and blast.
Among the deceased, 11 bodies have been identified so far, with most being female workers employed at the factory. The identified victims include:
- Adabala Srinu
- Karimpalli Krupamma
- Karimpalli Dhanaraju
- Sadhanala Satyaveni
- Bhatluri Ravi
- Mondapalli Chinni
- Nimmada Karuna
- Gampala Manga
- Godatha Mahesh
- Godatha Ramu
- Godatha Noni
Authorities continue efforts to identify the remaining bodies, many of which were scattered across fields. The predominance of women among the victims highlights the demographic often employed in such labor-intensive fireworks units in rural Andhra Pradesh.
Injuries were reported in significant numbers, with several people suffering critical burns and trauma. Eight critically injured individuals were rushed to nearby private hospitals for advanced care, while six others received treatment at the government hospital in Kakinada. Doctors have indicated that at least nine of the injured remain in critical condition, with fears that the death toll could rise further if complications arise.
Emergency Response and Official Actions
Rescue and firefighting operations commenced swiftly despite access difficulties. Fire tenders worked to contain the blaze, preventing it from spreading to adjacent fields or structures. Police, fire personnel, and medical teams converged on the site amid chaotic scenes.
Kakinada District Collector Shanmohan and Superintendent of Police Bindu Madhav reached the explosion site promptly to oversee operations, assess the damage, and coordinate relief. Their presence ensured streamlined rescue and medical evacuation processes.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, who was informed during a visit to Vijayawada (or related engagements), reacted immediately. He directed Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha to visit the site without delay and ordered immediate relief measures for the affected families and injured. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Chief Minister expressed profound grief:
“The loss of several lives in this accident is heartbreaking. I have spoken with senior officials regarding this incident. I have directed that necessary assistance be provided immediately to the affected individuals. I express my condolences to the bereaved families.”
Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha, en route to the site, confirmed instructions for prompt aid and announced that an investigation into the cause was underway. IT Minister Nara Lokesh also took to X to convey condolences, assuring proper medical treatment for the injured and support for grieving families.
The state government has emphasized swift ex-gratia payments, medical support, and rehabilitation for survivors, underscoring the administration’s commitment to industrial safety in high-risk sectors like fireworks manufacturing.
Broader Context: Fireworks Industry Risks in Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh has witnessed recurring tragedies in its fireworks and firecracker manufacturing sector, often due to unsafe handling of explosives, overcrowding in units, inadequate safety protocols, and location in residential or agricultural areas. The Suryashri fireworks factory explosion adds to a grim list of similar incidents across districts like East Godavari, Anakapalli, and Konaseema.
Experts point to common factors: storage of large quantities of volatile materials in unlicensed or poorly regulated setups, lack of proper ventilation during mixing processes, and insufficient emergency exits. Rural units like this one often employ daily-wage laborers, including many women from nearby villages, who face heightened risks without adequate protective gear or training.
This incident has renewed calls for stricter enforcement of licensing norms under the Explosives Act, mandatory safety audits, and relocation of such factories away from populated or farmland areas. Environmental concerns also arise, as blasts can contaminate soil and water sources near canals like the Godavari.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigations
The blast has left Vetlapalem and surrounding villages in mourning. Families of the victims, many from economically vulnerable backgrounds, now face immense hardship. Local leaders and NGOs are mobilizing support, including financial aid and counseling.
The exact cause remains under probe. Preliminary theories suggest mishandling during explosive mixing, but officials await forensic and expert analysis. The factory’s location in farmland—while providing space—exacerbated access issues and spread panic through visible smoke plumes.
As Andhra Pradesh grapples with this tragedy, the focus shifts to accountability, compensation, and preventive measures to avert future fireworks factory blasts in Samarlakota and elsewhere.
This developing story will be updated with official confirmations, final death toll, and probe findings. Our thoughts remain with the bereaved families and injured victims during this difficult time.
