GURDASPUR, PUNJAB: At least 16 people have died and dozens are feared trapped after a massive explosion took place today at a firecracker making factory in Punjab's Gurdaspur, according to news agency ANI. he incident took place around 4 pm at the factory located in a residential area in Gurdaspur's Batala, Inspector General (Border Range) SPS Parmar said.

The impact of the explosion was such that the factory was completely destroyed and nearby buildings were damaged too.


Chief Minister Amarinder Singh said rescue operations are underway with the District Collector and the Senior Superintendent of Police heading the relief efforts.