An explosion at a factory in the town of Kakinada has caused the death of 21 people.

The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, stated that he is "saddened by the loss of human lives" following the explosion in Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, which resulted in the death of 21 people out of approximately 30 present in the factory. Eight other individuals are hospitalized for medical care.

Authorities have opened an investigation to determine the causes of this tragedy, described as "heartbreaking" by the Chief Minister of the state, N. Chandrababu Naidu. Explosions in firecracker factories are common in India, often caused by non-compliance with safety regulations. Previously, a similar explosion occurred last year, resulting in the death of 21 people.