The devastating explosion at the Harda fireworks factory has claimed yet another life, intensifying the tragedy that has already taken 13 individuals. In the MP blast,the latest victim is a 9-year-old boy, succumbed to injuries sustained while heroically attempting to rescue his disabled father from the chaos.

Ashish, along with his father Sanjay Rajput, was struck by flying debris during the explosions as they desperately sought safety on Tuesday. Sanjay, who operates a paan shop near the factory and is unable to use his legs, was being pushed in his wheelchair by his courageous son when tragedy struck.

According to Jitendra Saini, a neighbor from Bairagarh village in Harda, Ashish's mother and sister managed to escape the initial blasts, but Ashish immediately sprang into action to save his father. Despite their efforts, both father and son were critically injured.

MP blast
Image: Times of India

Transported by ambulance to Narmadpuram, 100km away from Harda, their condition deteriorated rapidly. Ashish was subsequently transferred to AIIMS-Bhopal, 80km from Narmadpuram, where he tragically passed away on Friday evening.

The aftermath of the explosion has left many injured, with eight individuals admitted to AIIMS-Bhopal and 27 to Hamidia Hospital. While nine have been discharged from medical care, 25 others remain hospitalized. Dr. Salil Bhargav, the dean of Gandhi Medical College, provided updates on the situation, confirming that 21 patients are currently under treatment at Hamidia Hospital.

In response to the tragedy, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has initiated an investigation into the failure of monitoring agencies to ensure the safe storage of explosives at the factory. The NGT's inquiry aims to address the illegal storage and lack of proper authorization for explosive materials, as well as the necessary precautions required for safe storage.

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