Horrific blast at firecracker factory in India kills 11, injures over 60

At least 11 people have died in a horrific blast at a firecracker factory in Madhya Pradesh, Times of India reported.

The incident occurred on Tuesday in the city of Harda with more than 60 people reported injured.

According to local sources, several people are still trapped inside the factory, fearing a rise in the death toll.

Videos of the incident circulating online show massive fire at the site with intermittent explosions.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has directed Minister Uday Pratap Singh, Additional Chief Secretary Ajit Kesari, and Director General Home Guard Arvind Kumar to rush to Harda by helicopter.

Burn units at hospitals in Indore, Bhopal, and the All India Institute of Medical Sciences Bhopal (AIIMS) in the state capital are directed to make necessary arrangements for any emergency.

Fire brigades and ambulances have been called from neighbouring cities Indore and Bhopal to tackle the fire. The chief minister has also called for an emergency meeting.

Numerous cars and buildings close to the scene are said to have sustained damage and associated flames, according to the local media.

The incident's cause is still unknown. More than a hundred nearby homes have been evacuated by authorities as a precaution.