Eleven people were charred to death and over 15 suffered injuries in a major fire accident that took place in a firecrackers manufacturing unit cum godown in Vakathippa village of Uppada Kothapalli mandal near Kakinada on Monday afternoon. The condition of the two of the injured is said to be critical.
The owner of the godown Venkata Ramana along with his workers and buyers from Kakinada City died after the flames engulfed the entire godown within minutes after fire broke out. According to SP Ravi Prakash, who accompanied the Collector Neetu Prasad to the spot, the death toll could increase as there were 30 people inside the godown when the mishap occurred.
Fire tenders were rushed to the spot and further details of the deceased and injured are awaited. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed Deputy Chief Minister N. Chinna Rajappa and Collector Neetu Prasad to personally supervise the relief measures.
