Government Sets Up High-Level Committee on Vetlapalem Tragedy

N. Chandrababu Naidu assured that the Andhra Pradesh government would stand firmly with families affected by the fireworks factory explosion at Vetlapalem in Kakinada district , expressing deep grief over the loss of 26 lives in the tragedy.

Making a special statement in the Assembly, he conveyed condolences to the bereaved families. Members of the House observed two minutes of silence in memory of the victims.

He said six injured persons are currently undergoing treatment in different hospitals. The Surya Sri Fireworks unit at Vetlapalem had received permissions during the previous administration, but preliminary findings indicate that safety norms were violated and explosive materials were stored beyond permitted limits.

Around 30 workers were employed at the facility, where large quantities of fireworks were reportedly produced to meet high demand. The Chief Minister said he was on a tour in Vizianagaram district when the incident occurred and rushed to the site after receiving the information to review the situation.

Police and fire personnel reached the spot within half an hour and began rescue operations.

A case has been registered against the factory owner and an investigation is underway. The Chief Minister said he met the victims’ families to offer condolences. ₹2 lakh compensation from the Union government and ₹20 lakh ex gratia from the state government have been announced for each deceased victim’s family. Houses will also be provided to those without shelter.

He said official negligence contributed to the tragedy. The Peddapuram RDO , Peddapuram DSP , district fire officer and labour department officials have been suspended.

A high-level committee comprising Municipal Administration Principal Secretary Suresh Kumar and IG Ramakrishna has been formed to conduct a detailed probe.

The Chief Minister said the licensed unit failed to follow mandatory safety measures and attempts to increase production may have led to the accident.

He emphasized strict action to prevent similar incidents and said authorities are examining the possibility of seizing and auctioning the assets of those responsible to assist victims’ families.

He also criticized opposition parties for focusing on political allegations instead of public issues and accused them of politicizing matters such as the laddu prasadam issue at Tirumala Venkateswara Temple.

Stating that even minor lapses in fireworks manufacturing can lead to major disasters, he expressed profound sorrow and reiterated that the government would extend all possible support to the affected families.