Siwan firecracker blast kills four; Bihar Police say toll may rise
At least four people were killed in an explosion at a house in Bihar's Siwan district on Friday (October 23, 2026), where firecrackers were being manufactured, police said.
The blast occurred at Almapur village under the Jamo police station area. Superintendent of Police (SP) Bharat Soni said the site had been cordoned off and that the death toll could increase as rescue work continued.
Rescue operations are being led by the town Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO), Ashutosh Kumar Gupta, and senior police officials have reached the spot. Personnel were clearing debris and searching for people who may be trapped, officials said.
According to local residents, the firecrackers were being made for the upcoming Deepavali festival. The house belongs to Mohd. Amaruddin Mian, and residents said this work had been going on at the premises for several years.
Family members of Mr. Mian are reported to be among the dead, but officials have not yet confirmed the identities of those killed. Police said further details would be made public after the rescue operation is completed.
It was not immediately known whether the manufacturing unit had a valid licence. Firecracker production requires clearance under explosives safety rules, and district administrations are responsible for monitoring units operating in residential areas. Officials have not said whether any permission had been granted for the work at this house.
Fires and explosions at firecracker units are reported from various parts of the country every year, often in the weeks before Deepavali, when demand rises sharply. Such units frequently operate out of homes and small workshops, which makes accidents more dangerous for those inside as well as for neighbouring households.
In the run-up to the festival, district authorities are generally tasked with inspecting and shutting down unauthorised units. It is not yet known whether any inspection had been carried out in Almapur village before Friday's explosion.
Police have not announced whether a formal inquiry has been ordered, and no case details have been released so far. Senior officials said the priority at present was the rescue operation and medical assistance for those affected.
This is a developing story. Figures and details will be updated as official information becomes available.
