Ahmedabad Authorities Launch Thorough Probe into Deadly Firecracker Plant Explosion

The Ahmedabad city police announced the creation of a Special Investigation Team to lead a comprehensive inquiry into the catastrophic blast at the New Gujarat Fire Works facility near the Ramol police station.

The explosion, which took place on a Saturday afternoon, caused a fierce inferno that completely destroyed the plant and resulted in nine deaths and six injuries. The SIT, overseen by Joint Commissioner (Sector‑2) Jaipal Singh Rathore, includes Deputy Commissioner (Zone‑8) Mayur Patel, Additional Deputy Commissioner (South) Y.E.A. Gohil and Ramol Police Inspector V.D. Mori.

Police Commissioner Anupam Singh Gahlot mandated a ten‑day deadline for a progress report and emphasized that the investigation must remain neutral, transparent, and in strict accordance with legal provisions. All evidence—ranging from material samples to digital records—must be collected while maintaining an unbroken chain of custody.

The investigative process will be coordinated with the Forensic Science Laboratory, specialists in explosives, electrical engineers, fire‑service personnel, the labour department, and other relevant bodies. Upon conclusion, the SIT will file formal charges in a designated court and work closely with the public prosecutor to ensure timely submission of all testimony and documentation.

The case has been registered under sections 105, 287, 288 and 61(2) of the IPC, sections 5(A) and 6 of the Explosives Act, 1908, and section 9(B) of the Explosives Act, 1884. Preliminary reports suggest the factory was operating illegally after its licence expired without renewal.