Bhandara: The devastating blast at the ordnance factory in Bhandara district on January 24, which claimed nine lives and left four injured, was allegedly caused by negligence in repairing critical machines and instruments, an official has revealed.
Following an investigation by a probe committee, an FIR was registered on March 8 by Jawahar Nagar police, naming four officials from the defence production unit. The accused include Devendra Meena (Divisional Officer, Safety Section), Aadil Farooqui (Junior Works Manager, Maintenance Department), Anandrao Faye (Section Administration Officer), and Sanjay Dhapade (General Administration Department). Several other unidentified officials have also been booked.
The inquiry found that the Extrumix machine and other instruments in the LTPE (Low Temperature Plastic Explosives) section of the RX department, located in building number 23, had deteriorated but were not repaired in time, ultimately leading to the explosion. Additionally, it was discovered that trainees were made to work in highly sensitive areas, raising serious concerns about safety protocols.
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28 April 2025
Authorities continue their investigation, and further legal action is expected.
