Several teams of fire brigade, police and disaster management rushed to the site to conduct rescue operations. Even a team of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been deployed at the site. Huge plumes of black smoke engulfed the surrounding area. Authorities fear the smoke could be hazardous and may endanger the lives of people in the area. Rescue operations at the spot is still going on, he said, adding that the fire triggered by the explosion has been brought under control.
A statement from the Chief Minister's Office said the fire was under control. Guardian minister, collector, SP and SDRF team were also on the spot, it said. Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis expressed grief over the loss of lives and has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh to the kin of the deceased.
Home Minster Amit Shah too extended condolences to the bereaved families and informed that he spoke to the Maharashtra CM. Amit Shah assured that the state government is doing everything possible to assist the people in need.
"Anguished to learn about the loss of lives due to explosion at a chemical factory in Dhule, Maharashtra. Have spoken to CM @Dev_Fadnavis, state govt is doing everything possible to assist the people in need. My condolences with the bereaved families. May injured recover soon," he tweeted.
The police control room received a call about the explosion at 10.20 am. The injured were rushed to nearby sub-district hospital and later those in critical condition were shifted to private hospitals in the area. Authorities also fear that the death toll is likely to increase.
The chemical factory is located in Waghadi village which is around 60 kms away from Dhule and 400 km from Mumbai.