"As per latest reports, but so far not confirmed officially, 18 are dead," the Indian Embassy said in an official release. "Some of the missing may be in the list of dead which we are still to receive as identification is not possible because of the bodies being burnt," it added.
The Indian Embassy on Wednesday issued a detailed list of Indians who were hospitalised, went missing or survived the tragedy. As per its data, 7 people have been hospitalised, with four in critical condition. Thirty four Indians who survived have been accommodated at the Saloomi Ceramics Factory residence.
An AFP report quoted the Sudanese government saying that 23 people were killed and more than 130 injured in the incident, which, according to preliminary reports, indicate that necessary safety equipment was missing at the site.
"There were also inflammable materials improperly stored, which led to the spread of the fire," the government said, adding that an investigation has been launched. As per eyewitnesses, fire came after a gas tanker exploded while unloading its shipment at the factory. They also added that the blast was so powerful it blew the tanker into a nearby lot.
According to media reports, blast had led to major loss of life and property, and that a rescue operation was ongoing. Thick plumes of black smoke billowed into the sky after the blaze broke out in the industrial zone.
Reportedly, the state police have cordoned off the area and rescue operations are underway. Doctors at Bahari Hospital in north Khartoum made an urgent appeal for all medical personnel to come to the hospital to help treat the burn victims.