Amaravati, March 02, 2026: The death toll from a devastating blast at the Surya Fireworks manufacturing unit in Vetlapalem village, Samalkot mandal, Kakinada district, rose to 22 on Monday after more injured workers succumbed to severe burn injuries.
The explosion occurred on February 28 during production activities, reportedly involving far more explosive material than legally allowed and exceeding permitted worker numbers.
Authorities confirm the unit had been banned from operations since early 2025 following inspections, yet it resumed illegally.
Police have taken brothers Adabala Veerababu (31) and Arjun (29) owners of the unit, into custody for questioning; their father was among the deceased. State officials, including the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister, visited the site and hospitals to console families and review medical care.
